Will Cervical Disc Replacement Help You?

Individuals experiencing pain or neurologic symptoms from cervical disc herniation or degenerative disc disease may benefit from cervical disc replacement surgery. To determine if this procedure is right for you, schedule a consultation with a cervical spine surgeon at Virginia Neurosurgeons today.

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Why Choose a Cervical Spine Surgeon at Virginia Neurosurgeons?

Virginia Neurosurgeons, established in Arlington in 2001, stands as a prominent independent neurosurgical group in Northern Virginia. With a commitment to delivering academic-level care within a community setting, our practice has emerged as a leader in neurosurgery throughout the mid-Atlantic region and the U.S. Having served over 30,000 patients from diverse backgrounds, our experienced neurosurgeons, all board-certified by the American Board of Neurological Surgeons, bring unparalleled expertise. Our dedication to ethical and compassionate care, coupled with our comprehensive training in spinal neurosurgery, enables us to offer the highest-quality, advanced treatments, such as cervical disc replacement, to improve mobility and enhance the quality of life for our patients. At Virginia Neurosurgeons, our goal is to serve as trusted advocates, providing open communication and personalized guidance to ensure the best possible outcomes.

About Cervical Disc Replacement

This surgical procedure addresses issues with damaged or herniated discs in the neck. In this motion-preserving approach, the problematic disc is removed to decompress the nerves or spinal cord and replaced with an artificial one, relieving pain and neurologic symptoms while maintaining the neck's range of motion. Conditions commonly treated with cervical disc replacement include:

  • Disc Herniation: When the soft cushion-like discs between vertebrae rupture or bulge.
  • Degenerative Disc Disease: Wear and tear on spinal discs, leading to pain and discomfort.

Why Cervical Disc Replacement?

Cervical disc replacement offers several advantages over spinal fusion surgeries while maintaining the effectiveness of the traditional approaches, providing patients with a faster recovery and improved quality of life. The benefits include:

Preservation of Motion:

Unlike fusion procedures, disc replacement allows for continued movement in the treated area.

Reduced Stress on Adjacent Discs:

Minimizing strain on neighboring discs helps prevent additional degeneration.

Quicker Return to Daily Activities:

Patients often experience a shorter recovery period and can resume normal activities sooner.

Maintained Neck Curvature:

The procedure supports the natural curvature of the spine, promoting long-term spinal health.

Relief from Pain and Discomfort:

Cervical disc replacement effectively addresses symptoms, enhancing overall well-being.

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Cervical Disc Replacement at Virginia Neurosurgeons

The consultation and diagnostic steps are crucial in determining whether you would benefit from a cervical disc replacement. If you are a candidate for cervical disc replacement, our cervical spine surgeons tailor the procedure to individual needs through advanced imaging and a comprehensive evaluation. The surgery typically involves:

Preparation:

The patient is positioned on the operating table. General anesthesia is administered to ensure the patient is asleep and comfortable during the procedure.

Incision:

A small incision is made in the front of the neck (anterior approach) to access the cervical spine. This approach allows for a direct view of the affected disc without disturbing the muscles and structures in the back of the neck.

Disc Removal:

The damaged disc is carefully removed, relieving pressure on the spinal nerves and spinal cord. This step is crucial for addressing issues such as disc herniation or degenerative disc disease.

Artificial Disc Placement:

An artificial disc, designed to mimic the natural movement and function of a healthy disc, is inserted into the space left by the removed disc. This helps maintain flexibility and stability in the neck.

Closure:

The incision is closed with absorbable, and a sterile dressing is applied to promote healing.

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Post-Surgery Care and Recovery 

After cervical disc replacement, patients can expect a brief hospital stay for initial monitoring, although some patients may be discharged on the day of surgery if they quickly recover. Mild discomfort may occur, which can be managed with pain relief medicine. Light activities can be resumed almost immediately, while strenuous tasks should be avoided for several weeks. Physical therapy may be recommended for improved recovery. Following the post-operative instructions of your cervical spine surgeon is crucial for optimal healing.

See if Cervical Disc Replacement is Right for You

If you have questions about cervical disc replacement, schedule a consultation with Virginia Neurosurgeons today. Don't let pain and neurologic symptoms limit your life—take the first step towards relief by reaching out to our expert neurosurgeons.

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