Cervical Disc Replacement

About Cervical Disc Replacement

Cervical disc replacement is a surgical alternative to spinal fusion for treating a damaged or degenerated disc in the neck that is causing nerve compression, pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms. Rather than removing the disc and fusing the adjacent vertebrae together, the surgeon removes the damaged disc through an incision at the front of the neck and inserts an artificial disc device designed to preserve natural movement at that spinal level. The artificial disc typically consists of two metal endplates with a mobile core between them that allows the segment to continue bending and rotating in a manner similar to a healthy disc. Preserving motion at the treated level is thought to reduce the extra stress placed on neighboring discs that can occur after fusion, potentially lowering the chance of needing further surgery at an adjacent level over time. Candidates are carefully selected based on the condition of the disc, the alignment of the spine, and the absence of significant arthritis at that level. Recovery is generally faster than with fusion, and India's spine centres offer both disc replacement and fusion, allowing the surgical team to recommend whichever option best suits the individual patient's anatomy.