Cervical Disc Replacement

Cervical Disc Replacement, also called Cervical Disc Arthroplasty (CDA), is a motion-preserving surgery used to treat nerve or spinal cord compression in the neck.
During this procedure, Dr. Fried removes a damaged or herniated cervical disc and replaces it with an artificial disc implant.

Unlike a fusion, which locks two vertebrae together, cervical disc replacement maintains more natural neck movement while relieving pressure on the nerves or spinal cord.

This surgery is commonly performed for:

• Herniated cervical discs
   
• Cervical radiculopathy (nerve pain radiating into the arm)
   
• Cervical spinal stenosis
   
• Degenerative disc disease in the neck
   
• Cervical myelopathy (spinal cord compression)
  
   

Both surgeries are performed through a small incision in the front of the neck (anterior approach) and relieve pressure by removing a damaged disc.

The key difference is how the spine is stabilized afterward, CDR replaces the damaged disc rather than fuses through the damaged disc space. This allows: 

• Preserves motion at the surgical level
• May reduce stress on surrounding discs
• Often preferred for younger, active patients 

You may be a good candidate if you have:

• Persistent neck and arm pain due to a herniated disc or stenosis
   
• Numbness or tingling in the arms or hands
   
• Muscle weakness from nerve compression
   
• Symptoms that haven’t improved with conservative care, such as physical therapy, injections, or medications
   
• Healthy bone quality and no severe spinal instability and limited facet arthritis
   

Disc replacement is typically best for one or two damaged levels.
Patients with severe arthritis, multi-level disease, or certain anatomical factors may be better suited for a fusion.

• Small incision: Dr. Fried makes a 1–2 inch incision in the front of the neck.
   
• Disc removal (discectomy): The damaged disc and any bone spurs are carefully removed to relieve nerve or spinal cord pressure.
   
• Artificial disc placement: A state-of-the-art artificial disc implant is inserted into the empty space to restore height and preserve motion.
   
• Closure: The incision is closed with precision to minimize scarring.

• Same-day or overnight stay: Most patients go home the same day or after a brief hospital stay.
   
• Return to light activity: Many return to desk work or daily activities within 1–4 weeks.
   
• Full recovery: Healing and increased activity often occur by 6–12 weeks, depending on age and overall health. Return to all activities is expected at 6 months
   
• Physical therapy: May begin a 6 weeks after surgery to restore strength and range of motion. 

• Preserves more natural motion in the neck
   
• Lower risk of adjacent level degeneration, which can occur after fusion
   
• Reliable relief of nerve-related arm pain and tingling
   
• Small incision and minimal muscle disruption with an anterior approach
   
• Often performed outpatient, allowing you to recover at home

Preparation steps are similar to other spine surgeries:

• Stop certain medications, such as blood thinners, as directed.
   
• Avoid eating or drinking for a set period before surgery.
   
• Arrange transportation home if discharged the same day.
   
• Set up a recovery area at home with essentials within easy reach.
   
• Quit smoking — it improves healing and reduces complications. 

• Many patients notice immediate improvement in arm pain or tingling.
   
• Mild neck soreness or stiffness for the first few days is normal.
   
• You will be encouraged to walk and move carefully right away to promote healing.
   
• Follow-up visits will ensure the implant remains stable and your recovery is on track.
   
• Most patients do not need a neck brace, as motion is preserved.

Contact Dr. Fried’s office right away if you experience:

• Fever, chills, or signs of infection at the incision site
   
• New or worsening numbness, tingling, or weakness
   
• Severe difficulty swallowing or breathing
   
• Sudden, severe neck pain that doesn’t improve with medication