Cervical Disc Replacement

This procedure is used to replace painful damaged discs in your neck with artificial discs. As is the case with all surgical procedures, cervical disc replacement is only recommended if non-surgical methods of treatment have failed.

This procedure was developed as an alternative to anterior cervical discectomy and fusion to better allow for both pain relief and continued motion throughout the spine.

Benefits of This Procedure

You’ll be relieved of the arm and neck pain you’re experiencing due to the herniated disc in your neck or degenerative disc disease. The damaged disc irritates spinal nerves that have roots in the spinal cord near the disc. By removing it, the pressure on the nerve is released and the pain will be relieved.

The main additional benefit of cervical disc replacement over anterior cervical discectomy and fusion is preserving more freedom of motion in your neck. It can also result in faster healing times and can decrease the chances of other discs in your neck degenerating.

Dr. Rovner will explore this option with you during your consultation. But he will only recommend it as a last resort when non-surgical treatment options have failed and if this is the appropriate treatment for your individual problem.

About The Surgery

Dr. Rovner will begin the surgery by making a small incision in the front of the neck. The windpipe, as well as arteries, muscles, etc., are then moved aside, providing access to damaged disc. The disc is then removed and the artificial disc inserted in its place and secured.

Prodisc C Vivo Surgical
Animation V2

This is a Cervical disc Dr. Rovner has been utilizing recently and goes reviews the actual procedure.

CERVICAL DISC REPLACEMENT - DR. TRONTIS

Before & After A Cervical Artificial Disc Replacement- Dr. Trontis

Got Neck Pain? Fusions Aren’t The Only Option- Dr. Trontis

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What To Expect

At Progressive Spine & Orthopaedics, our spine specialists use state-of-the-art technology and procedures. This enables you to go home the same day or just one day after the procedure and return to your normal life quickly in most cases. You should feel some relief from your arm and neck pain almost immediately. This all depends on how long you were experiencing your symptoms and how irritated your spinal nerves were by the herniated disc.

Of course, you’ll receive more detailed and specific instructions for your recovery from Dr. Rovner after the procedure. He’ll be happy to answer any and all questions you have. You’ll be scheduled for post-surgery appointments to verify that your recovery is going as expected.

Dr. Rovner will be active and a part of all aspects of your care – from your first consultation, through choosing your treatment plan together, all the way to your recovery.

About Your Doctor

Dr. Joshua Rovner is a board-certified spine surgeon in New Jersey providing both non-surgical and surgical treatment of pain related to the neck and entire back. He prides himself on his patient-centered, personalized approach that helps correctly diagnose and treat problems related to deformity, trauma, and degenerative conditions. He focuses on conservative non-surgical methods but, when surgery is necessary, utilizes the most modern techniques. To learn more about motion- sparing surgery for you neck problems request a consultation today. Or you can call us at 201.227.1299 to schedule your appointment.

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Cervical Disc Replacement FAQs

How is cervical disc replacement different from other motion-sparing neck procedures?

Cervical disc replacement is designed to maintain natural movement at the treated level while directly addressing disc-related nerve compression, unlike some procedures that limit motion to stabilize the spine.

Who is not a good candidate for cervical disc replacement?

Patients with significant spinal instability, advanced arthritis of the facet joints, severe osteoporosis, or multi-level degeneration may not be appropriate candidates for this procedure.

How long does the artificial disc typically last?

Artificial cervical discs are engineered for long-term durability, though longevity can vary based on activity level, anatomy, and overall spinal health.

Will I need physical therapy after cervical disc replacement?

Some patients benefit from guided physical therapy to restore strength and flexibility, while others recover well with home-based activity progression depending on symptoms and healing.

Can cervical disc replacement be performed if I've had prior neck surgery?

Prior cervical surgery does not automatically exclude disc replacement, but it may affect candidacy depending on anatomy, scar tissue, and the levels previously treated.

How soon can I safely drive after cervical disc replacement?

Driving is usually permitted once pain is well controlled, neck mobility is adequate, and narcotic pain medication is no longer required, which varies by patient.

Does cervical disc replacement reduce the risk of future neck problems?

By preserving motion at the treated level, cervical disc replacement may help reduce stress on adjacent discs, though it does not eliminate the possibility of future degeneration.

What follow-up care is required after cervical disc replacement surgery?

Postoperative care includes scheduled follow-up visits and imaging as needed to monitor healing, implant position, and symptom improvement over time.