The artificial cervical disc is an alternative to fusion that is designed to preserve motion. The goal of this new technology is to maintain spinal motion after discectomy and theoretically reduce the risk of adjacent segment disease. After a spinal fusion, extra stress is felt on the movable discs above and below the fusion. The added stress can over time degenerate the adjacent discs and cause more problems. More long-term studies are needed to show if artificial disc replacement truly reduces the risk of adjacent segment disease. Early studies suggest that artificial disc replacement is comparable to anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) in relieving symptoms caused by disc herniation and nerve compression. There are currently three artificial cervical disc replacement devices that are FDA approved in the United States: the BRYAN® disc (approved 2009), the PRESTIGE® Cervical Disc (approved 2007), and the ProDisc-C (approved 2007. ) An artificial disc surgery may be done instead of an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion. The theoretical advantages of the artificial cervical disc over a fusion include:
Recovery time generally lasts 4 to 6 weeks. X-rays may be taken after several weeks to verify that fusion is occurring. A cervical collar or brace is worn during recovery to provide support and limit motion while your neck heals or fuses
Cosmetic transverse 5-6 cm long scar along one side of the neck
Serious complications while possible are unlikely. In addition to the usual risks associated with anaesthesia, other risks include:
