Cervical Artificial Disc Replacement: What You Need to Know
Updated:
Cervical artificial disc replacement is a surgical procedure used to treat neck pain and related symptoms caused by damaged discs in the cervical spine. This motion-preserving alternative to spinal fusion is growing in popularity for eligible patients.
Below, we cover everything you need to know — from why it’s done to what recovery looks like.
What Is Cervical Artificial Disc Replacement?
Cervical artificial disc replacement (ADR or TDR) is a type of neck surgery that involves removing a damaged or herniated disc completely from the cervical spine (the neck area) and replacing it with an artificial disc. The implant is made from titanium. The procedure aims to relieve pressure on nerves and maintain normal neck movement.
Why Is Cervical Disc Replacement Done?
This procedure is usually recommended for people with:
- Cervical disc herniation
- Degenerative disc disease
- Pinched nerve (cervical radiculopathy)
- Chronic neck pain and arm pain that hasn’t improved with non-surgical treatments
- Patients with isolated disc degeneration rather than widespread arthritis (spondylosis)
When a disc becomes worn or damaged, it can compress nearby nerves, leading to pain, weakness, numbness, or tingling in the neck, shoulders, arms, or hands. If other treatments like physiotherapy, medication, or injections haven’t helped, TDR may be a suitable option.
Who Is a Candidate for Cervical Disc Replacement?
You may be a good candidate for this procedure if you:
- Have a single-level disc problem between the C4 and C7 vertebrae
- Have no severe arthritis or spinal instability
- Want to preserve motion in your neck
- Are in overall good health
Our spinal consultant Mr Dan Fagan will use imaging scans and physical assessments to determine if TDR is the right choice for your condition.
What Are the Benefits of Cervical Disc Replacement?
- Maintains more natural neck movement
- Faster recovery than spinal fusion
- Less stress on surrounding discs (lower risk of adjacent segment disease)
- Effective pain relief and improved function
- No need for bone grafts or permanent fusion
Recovery: What to Expect
- Hospital Stay: Most patients go home the day after surgery.
- Return to Activities: Daily activities of living can be resumed right away. Light activities can resume within 2 weeks. Heavy lifting and strenuous activity should be avoided for six weeks. This includes desk-based work – poring over a computer can cause postoperative neck pain!
- Follow-Up: You’ll have regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing and progress.
Recovery time varies, but many people experience significant pain relief and improved function within two weeks.
When to See a Spinal Specialist
If you’re experiencing ongoing neck pain, numbness, or weakness in your arms that hasn’t improved with conservative care, it’s time to speak to a spinal consultant.
Expert Cervical Spine Care at SpineArt
At SpineArt, our spinal consultant Mr Dan Fagan specialises in diagnosing and treating complex cervical spine disorders, including performing cervical artificial disc replacement. His personalised, evidence-based approach ensures you receive the most appropriate and effective care.
Private Consultations available at:
- Nuffield Health Tees Hospital, Stockton
- Woodlands Hospital, Darlington
- Online Telemedicine consultations
Book a Consultation Today
Discover if Cervical Disc Replacement is the right option for your neck pain. Contact us today to arrange an appointment with Mr Fagan and take the first step toward lasting relief.
