Learn About Cervical Disc Arthroplasty

Our Spine Program is run by Awarded Spine Expert Dr. Steven Leckie.

Locations in Duxbury & Sandwich, Massachusetts

About Cervical Disc Arthroplasty:

A Cervical Disc Arthroplasty is also commonly referred to as a Cervical Total Disc Replacement. This Minimally Invasive Spine Surgical procedure is similar to a traditional joint replacement procedure for the hip or knee. However, a Cervical Disc Replacement involves the insertion of an artificial disc in the cervical spine after a natural cervical disc has been removed. An artificial disc is a prosthesis that is designed to maintain the natural motion in the affected vertebrae region while providing stability to the cervical spine.

How is it performed?

Through a small incision made near the front of the neck, the surgeon will gently pull aside soft tissues and other structures surrounding the area to access the cervical spine. Then, the surgeon exposes the area in which disc fragments or bone spurs have been pressing against the nerve roots or spinal cord and removes the disc and bone material to provide more space. The surgeon will then insert the artificial disc prosthesis into the space where the damaged disc has been removed. Finally after successfully implementing the prosthesis, the surgeon will place the soft tissues and other structures back into place and close the incision.