Cervical Disc Replacement Performed in Houston, Cypress & Tomball, TX

Cervical total disc replacement surgery may be recommended for addressing a herniated disc, degenerative disc disease, or another cervical spine condition that is causing chronic neck pain or radiculopathy. Also known as total disc arthroplasty and artificial disc replacement, this procedure involves the removal of a damaged spinal disc in the neck, along with any nearby bone spurs, and the insertion of a metal or polymer prosthetic in its place.

Advantages of Cervical Disc Replacement

Until recently, a procedure known as anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) was considered the gold standard in cervical spine surgery. ACDF involves a discectomy to decompress the spinal cord or affected nerve root, followed by an inter-vertebral fusion to stabilize the corresponding vertebrae. However, cervical disc replacement surgery is quickly gaining popularity because:

• Unlike ACDF, cervical disc replacement does not require a bone graft; therefore, the risk of nonunion—a situation in which the bone graft fails to fuse with the spine—is eliminated. When an artificial disc is properly sized and placed, the risk of failure is minimal. Additionally, because the bone graft required in an ACDF procedure can take several weeks to fully harden, choosing a cervical disc replacement instead may lead to a faster recovery.
• Unlike ACDF, cervical disc replacement does not involve a vertebral fusion, and therefore does not alter the biomechanics of the spine or reduce its range of motion. When an artificial disc is properly sized and placed, spinal motion is preserved.

With that said, cervical total disc replacement surgery is not right for every patient. For instance, ACDF may be a more appropriate approach for a patient who has had previous neck surgery, damaged vertebral bones, or facet joint degeneration.

Discuss Your Options With a Board-Certified Spine Surgeon

If you’re living with chronic neck pain, you can consult with R. Alexander Mohr, MD, a fellowship-trained, board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon who practices in Houston, Cypress and Tomball, Texas. Dr. Mohr is skilled and experienced in performing cervical total disc replacement surgery and other procedures to address cervical spine conditions. He also offers the latest nonsurgical treatments for neck pain and radiculopathy.

To receive personalized advice, contact Dr. Mohr’s office to schedule an appointment in Houston or Cypress, TX.