Cervical Disc Replacement

If neck pain or arm pain from a damaged disc is keeping you from the activities you enjoy, cervical disc replacement may be an option. This treatment replaces a worn or injured disc in the neck with an artificial disc to relieve pressure on nerves and restore motion. At Princeton Orthopaedic Associates, we evaluate each person to see if this procedure fits their needs and health. The decision depends on the cause of your symptoms, the number of discs involved, and other health factors. Cervical disc replacement is not suitable for everyone, so a careful exam and imaging tests guide the plan. Below we explain what the procedure involves, how recovery usually goes, and practical steps to prepare.

Cervical Disc Replacement Details

Cervical disc replacement is a surgical procedure that removes a damaged disc in the neck and places an artificial disc in its place. The cervical spine includes seven vertebrae in the neck that are separated by discs, which are soft tissues that cushion the bones and allow movement. When a disc bulges or degenerates, it can press on nearby nerves or the spinal cord, causing pain, numbness, or weakness in the neck, shoulders, or arms. The goal of replacement is to relieve that pressure while keeping normal motion at the treated level, unlike some other surgeries that fuse the bones together. We typically consider disc replacement when non-surgical care such as medication, physical therapy, or injections has not eased symptoms. It is usually offered for one or two symptomatic levels in patients with specific kinds of disc disease. This treatment is not recommended for people with significant instability of the spine, severe arthritis of the facet joints, active infection, or very weak bone quality; your surgeon will review these factors with you.

General Treatment Approach

The procedure is most often done through a small incision at the front of the neck. The damaged disc is removed carefully, taking pressure off the spinal cord and nerve roots. An artificial disc device, made from metal and/or medical-grade plastic, is then placed between the vertebrae to restore height and permit motion.

Surgeons use imaging such as X-rays or fluoroscopy during the operation to position the device precisely. The approach is designed to minimize disruption to muscles and other soft tissues, which can help reduce blood loss and scarring compared with larger open surgeries. Because the artificial disc preserves movement at the treated level, it can lessen added stress on adjacent levels of the spine.

The operation is typically shorter than some fusion procedures, and many people go home within a day when their medical team confirms they are stable. Your surgeon will explain which implants are being used and the reasons for choosing them based on your anatomy and symptoms.

Recovery After Cervical Disc Replacement

After surgery, you can expect some neck soreness and stiffness for a few weeks. Most people begin gentle neck movement soon after surgery, following specific instructions from the surgical team, and avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for several weeks.

Physical therapy often starts within a few weeks to help restore strength, posture, and range of motion. Full recovery varies, but many patients see steady improvement over six weeks to three months, while others may continue to improve for up to a year. Factors such as smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, obesity, or treatment at multiple spinal levels can lengthen recovery time.

Benefits and Possible Risks

Primary benefits of cervical disc replacement include relief of nerve pain, restoration of motion at the treated level, and avoiding a spinal fusion, which limits movement. Keeping motion may also reduce stress on nearby levels of the spine and lower the chance of future problems there.

As with any surgery, there are risks to consider. These include infection, bleeding, blood clots, and a reaction to anesthesia. Specific risks for neck surgery include injury to nerves or blood vessels, persistent pain, stiffness, or device-related problems. Your surgeon at Princeton Orthopaedic Associates will review the risks and benefits in the context of your health and imaging findings.

Preparing for Treatment and What to Expect at Home

Before surgery, your care team will give instructions about medications, tests, and fasting. You may be asked to stop certain blood-thinning medicines before the operation. Arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 to 48 hours.

These notes are general information only and do not replace advice from your doctor. During recovery, daily life often includes limited bending and lifting, short walks, and following a home exercise plan. Most people can return to light desk work after a few weeks, and to more physical jobs as cleared by their surgeon. Following post-op instructions closely helps support the best outcome.

Quick FAQ's

Will I keep my neck motion after a cervical disc replacement? Many patients retain motion at the treated level, but motion varies by person and depends on healing and the device used.