Advanced Spine Institute | Encino - Valencia - Lancaster - Ridgecrest
Spine & Back Surgery by K. Rad Payman, MD

The Spine MD - Advanced Spine Institute Neck and Back Specialists, Dr. K. Rad Payman

Expert Spine & Back Surgeon
K. Rad Payman, MD
The Spine MD - Advanced Spine Institute Neck and Back Specialists, Dr. K. Rad Payman

Call for an Appointment or Consultation:
818-501-2001   Encino-SFV-LA
661-264-2100   Valencia-Lancaster




Artificial Disc Replacement - Cervical Disc Arthroplasty


Dr. K Rad Payman is recognized as the leading Spine Surgeon specializing in Artificial Disc Replacement surgery. The information below will help answer many of your questions. Please call our office to schedule an appointment with Dr. Payman at 818-501-2001

Cervical artificial disc replacement surgery is a joint replacement procedure that involves inserting an artificial disc, such as the Synthes Pro Disc, between the vertebrae to replace a natural spinal disc after it has been removed. This prosthetic device is designed to maintain motion in the treated vertebral segment.

What Is Cervical Artificial Disc Surgery?

Cervical artificial disc surgery is a type of joint replacement procedure, or arthroplasty, which involves inserting a cervical artificial disc into the intervertebral space after a natural cervical disc has been removed.

A cervical artificial disc is a prosthetic device designed to maintain motion in the treated vertebral segment. A cervical artificial disc essentially functions like a joint, allowing for flexion, extension, side bending and rotation. The Synthes Pro Disc is the first artificial disc to be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in the cervical spine.

Why Do I Need This Procedure?

The intervertebral discs of the cervical spine are very important for the normal mobility and function of your neck. When healthy, they act as "cushions" for the individual bones of the spine, or vertebrae. Each disc is made up of two parts
Over time, discs can become dried out, compressed or otherwise damaged, due to age, genetics and everyday wear-and-tear. When this happens, the nucleus pulposus may push through the annulus fibrosis. Disc degeneration also may result in bone spurs, also called osteophytes. If disc or bone material pushes into or impinges on a nearby nerve root and/or the spinal cord, it may result in pain, numbness, weakness, muscle spasms and loss of coordination, both at the site of the damage and elsewhere in the body, since most the nerves for rest of the body (e.g., arms, chest, abdomen and legs) pass from the brain through the neck. Similar symptoms, however, may occur suddenly if the disc nucleus dislodges acutely and causes nerve root compression, a condition referred to as a herniated disc.

When non-surgical therapies fail to provide relief from your symptoms, your doctor may recommend spine surgery. The goal of cervical artificial disc surgery is to remove all or part of a damaged cervical disc (discectomy), relieve pressure on the nerves and/or spinal cord (decompression) and to restore spinal stability and alignment after the disc has been removed.

A spinal fusion with an anterior cervical plate currently is a very good surgical option for many patients, leaving most symptom-free and able to return to their normal activities within a short period of time. Using bone grafts and instrumentation, such as metal plates and screws, this procedure fuses, or creates a bond between, two or more adjacent cervical vertebrae, ideally stabilizing the segment and providing relief.

Cervical artificial disc replacement surgery, also referred to as spinal arthroplasty or just disc replacement, is another potential treatment option for patients with this condition.

Cervical artificial disc replacement surgery may be an appropriate treatment option for you if: To determine whether cervical artificial disc replacement surgery is the right treatment for you, your physician will perform a physical exam and other diagnostic testing, such as a spinal X-ray; magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) scan, myelogram and/or a bone scan.

It is important that you discuss the potential risks, complications, and benefits of cervical artificial disc replacement surgery with your doctor prior to receiving treatment, and that you rely on your physician's judgment. Only your doctor can determine whether you are a suitable candidate for this treatment.

How Is Cervical Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery Performed?

Through a small incision made near the front of your neck (a surgical approach called the anterior approach) your surgeon will:
Cervical artificial disc replacement surgery
Cervical artificial disc replacement
Cervical artificial disc

Knowing what to expect during your procedure can help you face your surgery with confidence. Your doctor can give you additional details about the procedure specific to your condition.

How Long Will It Take Me To Recover?

Your surgeon will have a specific post-operative recovery plan to help you return to your normal activity level as soon as possible. Your length of stay in the hospital will depend on your treatment and physical condition. You typically will be up and walking by the end of the first day after the surgery. Your return to work will depend on how well your body is healing and the type of work/activity level you plan to return to.

Work closely with your spinal surgeon to determine the appropriate recovery protocol for you, and follow his or her instructions exactly to optimize your healing process.

Are There Any Potential Risks Or Complications?

As with any spine surgery, surgical treatment with the Synthes Pro Disc is not without risk. A variety of complications may occur, either alone or in combination.

Potential risks associated with any surgery include anesthesia complications, blood clots, allergic reactions and adverse effects due to undiagnosed medical problems, such as silent heart disease. Potential complications associated with spine surgery and the Synthes Pro Disc may include
Cervical artificial disc at Advanced Spine Institute
There is also the risk that this surgical procedure will not be effective, and may not relieve or may cause worsening of preoperative symptoms.

Prior to treatment, please discuss the risks associated with cervical artificial disc surgery thoroughly with your doctor.

It is important that you discuss the potential risks, complications and benefits of the Synthes Pro Disc with your doctor prior to receiving treatment, and that you rely on your doctor's judgment. Only your doctor can determine whether you are a suitable candidate for this treatment.

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