Cervical Disc Replacement
Replacement of a damaged cervical disc with an artificial device — preserving motion at the treated level.
Cervical Disc Replacement
Treating cervical disc disease while preserving natural neck movement — an alternative to fusion.
Same decompression as anterior fusion — but adjacent levels are protected by preserving motion. Faster return to activity. Best outcomes in single-level disease.
What Is It?
The damaged cervical disc is removed and replaced with an artificial disc prosthesis that allows continued motion at the treated level — contrasting with fusion, where the level is fixed. Motion preservation reduces load on adjacent discs over time.
Before Surgery
MRI and CT reviewed to confirm candidacy — not all cervical disc conditions are suitable. Significant instability, osteoporosis, or facet joint disease may favour fusion instead. Standard pre-operative clearance.
During Surgery
General anaesthesia. Small incision on the front of the neck. Disc removed and spinal cord decompressed. Artificial disc implanted and positioned under fluoroscopic guidance. 60–90 minutes.
After Surgery
Hospital stay: one to two days. Soft collar for one to two weeks for comfort. Neck movement returns quickly. Arm symptoms typically improve within days to weeks.
Recovery
Desk work: two to four weeks. Physical activity: six to ten weeks. Annual imaging review recommended to confirm device position and motion preservation.
Dr. Viswanath's Approach
Offered where it provides an advantage over fusion — primarily in younger patients with single-level disease and no contraindications. The decision between replacement and fusion is made on the full clinical picture.
Questions about
cervical disc replacement?
A consultation will determine whether disc replacement or fusion is the right approach for you.