Artificial Cervical Disc Replacement

Overview

This procedure replaces a degenerative or damaged spinal disc with an implant designed to preserve motion in your neck. This procedure can relieve the pain of compressed nerves in the cervical spine.

Removing the Disc

In preparation for the procedure, you are positioned on your back. You are anesthetized. The surgeon creates a small incision in the front of your neck. The structures within your neck are gently moved aside to create a path to your spine. The surgeon carefully removes the damaged disc. This leaves a space between the vertebrae.

Inserting the Implant

The implant has three parts: upper and lower metallic plates and a plastic core that sits between them. The plates have teeth designed to hold them securely in place. These teeth are pressed into the upper and lower vertebrae. Over time, bone will grow and attach to these plates.

Motion

Unlike a rigid neck fusion, which locks your neck in a fixed position, the implant is designed to allow you to move your neck more naturally. The components glide smoothly against each other. With the implant, you can turn your head and bend your neck forward, backward and side to side, just as you would with an undamaged disc.

End of Procedure and Aftercare

When the procedure is complete, the incision is closed. You may wear a neck support as you heal. You may benefit from physical therapy. Your surgeon will give you specific instructions to aid your recovery.

Related doctors

View More

Related Locations

View More

Cape Cod Health News

Cape Cod Health News - A News Service of Cape Cod Healthcare

Your go-to source for timely, information and credible health news.

See All Health News

Have an idea for a story?

Submit a Story Idea

Upcoming Events

  • Jan
    14
    Wednesday
    Scheduled Tours of The Family Birthplace
    4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
    Join us for a tour of The Family Birthplace. We will escort you to Maternity and share the details of our unit, an environment that supports parent-baby bonding designed with your comfort and safety in mind.
  • Jan
    15
    Thursday
    Infant and Child CPR
    5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
    Taught by a certified American Heart Association instructor. This Infant and Child CPR and Safety course focuses on the lifesaving skills of infant and child CPR and choking relief for children and newborns. This course does NOT offer certification.
  • Jan
    16
    Friday
    The Fourth Trimester Truth; our weekly Postpartum Party!
    10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    Topics related to being a new mom and family adjusting to baby’s life outside the womb. Bring your baby to our weekly Postpartum Party! Ages newborn through pre-crawlers.
  • Jan
    20
    Tuesday
    CCH Breastfeeding Clinic- Tuesdays (located at Cape Cod Hospital, Hyannis)
    10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
    At this group for breastfeeding mothers, we offer hands-on help, weight checks, answer breastfeeding questions and discuss breastfeeding topics as different stages of development.
  • Jan
    20
    Tuesday
    Out of the Blue: Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Support Group
    12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    Join us and connect with others in a supportive and judgement free environment where you can focus on your well-being and learn more about these very common disorders. Babies are welcome! This group is facilitated by a licensed social worker (LCSW).

More Events

Find a Neurosurgeon

For general questions and information, please visit our Patient Help Center.

View Provider List