Your cervical spine is the structure and support for your neck region. The discs are the cushioning between the bones that allow your neck to move freely. This area of your spine also has a protective tunnel through which your spinal cord can pass. Over time, this space can become too narrow, and the discs can push on your nerves.
Cervical artificial disc replacement surgery — or cervical total disc arthroplasty — is a solution for the pain and weakness you may experience from this problem. The DISC experts can help at our office in Phoenix, AZ.
Several issues can cause the loss of space between your cervical vertebrae. As you age, your cervical discs may degenerate from general wear and tear in the joints. This phenomenon can also happen from injury.
You might be a good candidate for cervical disc replacement surgery if you have been experiencing any of the following symptoms in your cervical spine:
Our expert surgeons perform cervical artificial disc replacements as a minimally invasive procedure. Here is a quick look at the whole surgical process from start to finish.
Before surgery, we will start by meeting you at your initial consultation. This appointment is where we will ensure you are a candidate for the surgery and walk you through it. You will also get one-on-one time with your surgeon to discuss your concerns and ask questions. Your surgeon will let you know the specific directions needed before surgery, such as when to stop eating and drinking the day before.
Cervical artificial disc replacement surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that efficiently and safely replaces a damaged disc with an artificial disc. As the patient, you will be put under anesthesia, and the surgeon will only make a one- to two-inch anterior incision on your neck. Advanced technology tools will carefully cut and remove the damaged disc. A new artificial disc will be put in its place, restoring your neck’s structure and relieving pain.
Following the procedure, you will be moved to a recovery area to be monitored while you come out of anesthesia. From there, you may need to spend a couple of days in the hospital to ensure the disc is healing correctly. Recovery can look different for each patient, but you should be able to return to your full activities around four to six weeks after the procedure.
The surgeons at DISC have the technology and expertise to relieve your neck and back pain through cervical artificial disc replacement surgery. Contact us today with any questions or to schedule a consultation appointment.
