Nebraska Spine Hospital was one of the first facilities in the region to perform a cervical disc replacement. Because of that, we would like to take a moment to explain what it is and why it may need to be performed. Disc degeneration in the cervical spine is a terribly common ailment. Did you know that over 75% of people under the age of 50 have disc degeneration? [bctt tweet=”Did you know that over 75% of people under the age of 50 have disc degeneration?” username=”NESpineHospital”]
Cervical discs are essentially cushions between your vertebrae in your cervical spine. Over time, these discs can become damaged and become a source of pain.
Aside from being painful, if damaged discs move, they can place pressure on your spinal cord. This condition is referred to as a disrupted disc. Over time, the body will form bone spurs, or osteophytes, at the site of the disrupted disc. These spurs can cause even more pressure on your spinal cord and possibly cause neurological symptoms such as pain, numbness, and weakness radiating from your neck to one or both arms.
Cervical Disc Replacement Surgery
A cervical disc replacement is a surgical procedure that involves removing the damaged disc and replacing it with an artificial one. Cervical disc replacement may be recommended for those who are unable to find pain relief from other conservative spine care treatment options.Â
There is a wide range of procedures to alleviate your pain through the use of fusion techniques. These techniques involve removing the matter causing pain and inserting a bone graft that will fuse with your vertebrae to help support the spine.
Anterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion (ACDF)
Through a small incision at the front of the neck, surgeons remove the ruptured or herniated disc that is causing pain in the neck, arms, and even legs.
Posterior Cervical Fusion
To add stability, surgeons place bone grafts alongside the vertebrae and support with metal screws or rods to repair damage from an injury or other conditions.
We urge you to contact your physician if you are experiencing pain. We posted this blog for educational purposes only. Please do not take it as a diagnosis or professional medical advice.
