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Cervical disc replacement
Disc replacement surgery for the neck area of the spine. Cervical discs that become damaged can cause you considerable pain, numbness and weakness that radiates into your arms.
What is a cervical disc replacement?
This procedure is similar to an Anterior Cervical Discectomy with Fusion (ACDF) except that the defect that is created by removing the disc from between the two vertebrae is filled with a disc replacement device.
A disc replacement device is made up of two metallic surfaces one of which is attached to the upper and the other to the lower vertebra at the affected disc level. These metal implants can then slide on each other directly or can be separated by a piece of medical grade plastic.
The device allows for movement between the two vertebrae to be maintained and avoids the need for a fusion. The disc replacement device can be secured in place with screws or a press fit anchor that holds the implant to the bones.
Need to know
Your consultant will make a small incision on the front of your neck, normally 4 to 5 centimetres long. They will then use specialised instruments to remove the disc and any areas of bone which may be compressing either the spinal nerves or the spinal cord. Once the disc has been removed a disc replacement is inserted.
Your consultant will tell you how best to prepare for the treatment. Any surgery will take place under general anaesthetic which means you'll be asleep for the duration. Your consultants will explain the possible outcomes to you.
You will be given painkillers following surgery to combat any pain you experience around the incision. The approach to the spinal column requires some pressure on the voice box and therefore it is normal for your voice to be hoarse for between a few days and weeks following surgery. Occasionally permanent changes to the speech can occur.
Our nursing staff will aim to have you out of bed and walking on the first day after your procedure. Depending on the rate of your recovery you can expect to stay in hospital for between 1 and 3 days. Recovery will continue at home, with regular outpatient appointments to check on your progress.
It is important to understand that disc replacement is a newer procedure with less of a track record than the more traditional ACDF.
Recent studies have shown that cervical disc replacement results are equivalent to those of ACDF. The risks associated with cervical disc replacement are similar to those with an ACDF.
Your consultant will explain the procedure and answer any questions you might have.
Our Cervical disc replacement locations
The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road, SW1W 8RH London
The Wellington Hospital
8A Wellington Place NW8 9LE London
The Wilmslow Hospital
52-54 Alderley Road SK9 1NY Wilmslow
London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street SE1 2PR London
The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street W1G 8BJ London
The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place W1U 5NY London
The Shard Outpatients
The Shard, 32 St Thomas Street SE1 9BS London
Chiswick Outpatients
Bond House 347-353 Chiswick High Road W4 4HS London
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
David’s gym video shows him repeatedly pushing up to 100kg on a single leg press – not particularly unusual for this keen cyclist, former competitive squash player and all-round fitness enthusiast. What is unusual is that 52-year-old David had hip surgery just 12 weeks earlier.
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.