Cervical Artificial Disc
The use of an artificial disk to replace your natural cervical disc is a new type of treatment that has recently been approved by the FDA. Disc replacement surgery may have the advantage of allowing more movement and creating less stress on your remaining vertebrae than traditional cervical disc surgery.
A valuable alternative to conventional cervical fusion surgery is cervical artificial disc replacement, a well developed surgical treatment. With this cutting-edge procedure, a cervical disc that has degenerated or been damaged is replaced with an artificial disc implant that is made to resemble the structure and function of a normal intervertebral disc. The artificial disc gives the cervical spine regulated motion and flexibility thanks to its metal endplates and biocompatible material core.
The ability to maintain normal neck motion is one of the main benefits of cervical artificial disc replacement. Artificial disc replacement allows for continuous movement and mobility in the treated section, unlike spinal fusion surgery, which permanently unites nearby vertebrae. This has a substantial impact on preserving normal neck function and lowering the chance of adjacent segment degeneration, which can develop following fusion due to increased load on nearby discs. Additionally, when compared to fusion surgery, cervical artificial disc replacement frequently leads to a shorter hospital stay and quicker recovery times, allowing patients to get back to their normal lives more quickly.
It is important to point out that eligibility for cervical artificial disc replacement is influenced by a number of variables, including the severity of the cervical disc problem, the condition of the spine, and the unique patient characteristics. The suitability of this operation for each patient’s unique situation must be determined after a thorough review by a spine specialist. Cervical artificial disc replacement, however, presents a potential option for treating discomfort, regaining function, and preserving normal neck mobility for patients who qualify.
To be considered a candidate for an artificial cervical disc, you must meet the following specific criteria:
- Disc degeneration in one or two cervical spine discs that are herniating and compressing nerve roots causing arm pain
- Failed conservative treatment, such as physical therapy, pain medication or neck bracing, without showing improvement
- Overall good health with no signs of infection, osteoporosis, arthritis, or osteomalacia
- No known allergies to metals
Simplify Disc
Simplify® Disc is a motion-preserving cervical artificial disc designed to allow for advanced imaging capability of MRI, and to better match patients’ anatomies. It is composed of advanced, primarily non-metal materials and is anatomically designed.