Cervical Disc Replacement | Orthopaedic Institute of Ohio Orthopaedic Institute of Ohio

Cervical disc replacement (cervical arthroplasty) is a motion-preserving surgical option for patients with neck pain or nerve symptoms caused by a damaged or herniated cervical disc. Instead of permanently fusing the vertebrae, this procedure replaces the affected disc with an artificial one to relieve pain, maintain natural neck movement, and reduce stress on surrounding discs. Many patients experience faster recovery and a quicker return to normal activities compared to traditional spinal fusion.

Your neck, or cervical spine, is made up of a series of small bones called vertebrae that protect your spinal cord and provide stability for your head and upper body. Between each vertebra is an intervertebral disc, which acts like a cushion to absorb shock and allow your neck to bend, turn, and stretch comfortably. The vertebral joints and discs work together to maintain motion while supporting your head

How the Spine Changes Over Time

As we age, the spine naturally undergoes degenerative changes. These changes can affect the vertebrae, discs, ligaments, and joints, sometimes leading to stiffness, reduced mobility, or instability. Other factors such as hereditary abnormalities, previous injuries, trauma, or a sedentary lifestyle can also impact spinal stability.

When the spine becomes unstable, it can become a source of pain and discomfort.

Herniated Discs

Degeneration or trauma can cause tears in the intervertebral discs. The soft inner material of the disc may bulge or leak through these tears, resulting in a herniated disc.

Herniated discs can press on nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness in the neck, shoulders, arms, or hands. In severe cases, nerve compression can affect movement or sensation significantly.

What is Cervical Disc Replacement?

Cervical disc replacement (also called disc arthroplasty) is a surgical procedure that replaces a damaged cervical disc with an artificial disc. The goal of this procedure is to:

Restore normal motion in the neck
Relieve pain caused by a degenerated or herniated disc
Maintain stability and proper alignment of the spine
Reduce stress on adjacent discs

Unlike traditional spinal fusion, which permanently joins two vertebrae together, disc replacement allows you to retain more natural neck movement and may reduce the likelihood of problems developing in nearby discs over time.

How the Surgery Works

During the procedure:

The damaged disc is carefully removed.
The artificial disc is implanted to restore the disc height and spacing between vertebrae.
By maintaining disc height, nerve pathways are “opened,” relieving pressure on the spinal nerves.

The surgery is typically done through a small incision in the front of the neck and usually takes 1–2 hours. Many patients can go home the same day or after an overnight stay, depending on their condition.

Benefits

Patients who undergo cervical disc replacement may experience:

Pain relief in the neck and arms
Preservation of neck motion
Reduced stress on neighboring discs
Faster return to normal activities compared to traditional fusion in some cases

Recovery

Recovery generally involves a short period of neck discomfort, gradual return to daily activities over several weeks, and physical therapy as recommended by your surgeon.

Is Cervical Disc Replacement Right for You?

If neck pain, stiffness, or nerve symptoms are limiting your daily life, cervical disc replacement may be an option. A spine specialist can review your symptoms, medical history, and imaging studies to determine whether this procedure is the best solution for you.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about cervical disc replacement and how it can help restore your comfort and mobility.

Cervical Disc Replacement Device Options

prodisc® C

Why prodisc® C?

Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page includes details about the prodisc® C cervical disc replacement system, which is one of several FDA-approved options available for cervical disc replacement surgery. The Orthopaedic Institute of Ohio offers this procedure using various implant systems, and the specific device used may vary based on the treating physician’s clinical judgment, surgical preference, and facility availability. Please consult your surgeon to determine which implant option is most appropriate for your individual needs.