Cervical Artificial Disc Replacement
This procedure removes a degenerative or damaged disc in the neck and replaces it with an artificial disc. This artificial disc mimics what a normal disc would do, which is to absorb shock between the bones. When the disc is damaged or moves out of its normal position it can put pressure on the spinal nerves or cord. When this happens, bone spurs may form as a way for your body to react to the damaged disc. This degeneration will cause radiating pain from the neck to your shoulders and all the way down your arms. By removing the damaged disc and replacing it with an artificial disc patients get relief.
How is a Cervical Disc Replacement Surgery Performed?
- The patient will first be anesthetized.
- The Neurosurgeon will make a small incision (1 to 2 inches) in the side or front of your neck.
- Structures in your neck will now be moved aside carefully in order to get to the cervical spine.
- The surgeon will remove the damaged disc
- The artificial disc will now be installed into the disc space
- The surgeon will now close the incision and take you into the post operative recovery area
Recovery After Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery
This surgery is performed by our Neurosurgeons in one of our outpatient surgery centers across Tennessee. There will be no need to stay overnight, all patients will be able to return home the same day of the surgery.
Post Operative Recovery Area
The Nurses will move you to the post operative recovery area and check your blood pressure, heart rate, and respiration. If everything checks out you will then be discharged.
Discharge
- Post Operative Narcotics may be prescribed but for no longer than a week
- A Sore Throat is normal and there may be difficulty eating and swallowing for the first week
- A neck brace may also be prescribed
- A post operative appointment will be scheduled usually about 4-6 weeks after the surgery
Restrictions
- Anti-Inflammatory drugs such as Advil, Ibuprofen, and Aspirin should not be taken due to the ability for these drugs to cause bleeding and mess with the healing process
- Do not lift heavy objects
- Avoid moving your head forward or backwards
- Avoid sitting in one place for long periods of time
How Long is the Recovery Process?
Physical Therapy is most likely going to be recommended to speed up the recovery process. In about 4-6 weeks you will be able to return to doing light activities. After two months you may fully recover from your artificial disc replacement surgery. Some patients, it may take up to three months to recover.
If you are considering getting an artificial disc replacement in Tennessee come to Tennessee Spine Specialists. We have two board certified Neurosurgeons who are experts in Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery. Please give us a call at 865-424-2007 to schedule your consultation with one of our spine surgeons. You will also be able to use the consultation form on this page to reach one of our schedulers.
