A cervical disc replacement is a relatively new surgical approach to stabilizing spines, easing pain by reducing pressure on nerves in the spine.
In a cervical disc replacement procedure, a damaged disc is removed and replaced with an artificial disc that mimics a healthy one. This maintains a spine’s mobility while also avoiding putting any additional stress on adjacent discs—a complication that can occur with spinal fusion surgery.
The surgery, while delicate, is straightforward, often useful, and unfortunately not for everyone. The truth is not all who suffer with back pain are candidates for this surgery.
To qualify, at least three criterion must be considered…
Cervical Disc Replacement and Your Age
If you’re between the ages of 18 and 50, and you’ve not experienced improvement after six months of non-operative care (physical therapy and medication), we can talk about your having this surgery.
Younger than 18, and it’s likely you’ve not reached full skeletal maturity. Older than 50, and we need to discuss how well you’d tolerate surgery and how quickly you can recover given your overall health.
Age and general health are factors for any surgical procedure, and cervical disc replacement is no exception.
Cervical Disc Replacement And Your Spine Disease
This surgery best helps patients who have one, perhaps two, discs with sufficient damage to be causing compression on a nerve.
Before proceeding with this or any spinal surgery, we test extensively to make sure surgery will be helpful. An MRI or CT scan can confirm that soft tissues such as discs, nerve roots, and the spinal cord are showing that damaged discs are actually causing the pain you’re experiencing.
A pain radiating down your arms and legs, weakness, numbness, or trouble walking are all symptoms that point to disc deterioration—and may indicate a need for cervical disc replacement.
But don’t worry—before recommending this procedure, we’ll be sure your specific situation is a fit, and you’re likely to benefit. Your condition is unique, and we’ll be sure we have all the information needed to see if you and a cervical disc replacement are a match.
Cervical Disc Replacement And Your Spinal Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis that affects joints, often developing slowly with age. Normal wear and tear on joints gradually causes cartilage that cushions bones to break down. Significant injury or physical trauma of any sort can accelerate the process.
For the best results with a cervical disc replacement, no osteoarthritis can be present in your spine. We don’t want the artificial disc wearing into any weakened bones, creating more problems for you.
And a Fourth Consideration…
We don’t take any surgery lightly—and neither should you. That’s why we’re thorough in our testing and make sure you know precisely what’s involved in any surgery we might perform.
We can help you determine if a cervical disc replacement is appropriate for you, but not until we’ve had a chance to consult with you.
At Axis Spine Clinic, we’re here to help you find relief from the pain you’re experiencing—and that begins with a call.
Phone (614) 683-5537 today, and let’s talk about your next step toward living the pain-free life you want to enjoy.