This operation is used to treat pain related to a damaged disc between C3 to C7. The symptoms may be:
You might also have degenerative disc disease causing neck pain, and this can sometimes be treated with a disc replacement. However, there are other specific imaging findings that Dr Anderson will talk to you about prior to recommending this procedure in this situation. The benefits of performing a disc replacement rather than fusion is to allow ongoing motion while still achieving the goal of decompressing the prolapsed disc and alleviating the symptoms caused by this. This can also help to reduce the rate of disc related problems at levels above or below.
The approach is the same as that used for anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (see ACDF page). You will have a general anaesthetic, and an incision is made on the front of the neck. Dissection occurs between the muscles of the neck until the front of the vertebral body is identified. An xray is used to check the level and then a surgical microscope is used for the remainder of the procedure.
The disc is fully removed and the end plates are carefully prepared to allow for the implant to be placed. The nerve or spinal cord is checked to make sure there is no ongoing compression. An appropriately sized implant is selected, trialled and then inserted using xray guidance. The wound is then closed in layers, with dissolvable sutures used in the skin.
You will be admitted to hospital overnight. You will be monitored in recovery before being taken to the surgical ward. You will be given a soft neck collar for 6 weeks, and will be encouraged to perform gentle movement for the first 6 weeks after the operation.
Some patients find swallowing uncomfortable for the first few days after surgery, but you will be allowed to eat a normal diet once you are comfortable. Once you have walked with the physiotherapist and you are comfortable, you will be allowed to go home. Typically, this is 1 or 2 nights in hospital. You will be given an appointment to see Dr Anderson at the 6 weeks mark, but should you have any concerns before this point you can contact him via his rooms.
While most people are very satisfied with the surgical result, as with any surgical procedure there are risks involved. These include, but are not limited to:
Dr Anderson will discuss these with you during your consultation, as well as any other specific questions that you may have about the procedure.