When the discs in the spine dehydrate or dry out because of disease or ageing process, they lose their height and the space between the vertebrae narrows. This results in the inability of the discs to act as shock absorbers between the vertebrae. The loss of disc height can also make a base for bone spurs, which can rub against the spinal cord and nearby nerves.
The Cervical Disc Rupture causes pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots (nerve root compression) and leads to pain, weakness and tingling in the neck and arms.

Non-surgical treatments are effective in the early stages of neck pain. Surgery is recommended if the conservative treatment options do not provide relief to your pain or dysfunction. For better motion of the cervical spine, doctors trust Cervical Disc Prosthesis as an effective alternative to the older fusion procedure.

The indications for Cervical Disc Replacement are generally the same as for Cervical Discectomy (Disc Removal) and fusion. Symptoms from a cervical disc problem include neck and arm pain, arm weakness, arm and hand numbness. These symptoms may be due to a herniated disc and/or bone spur called osteophytes pressing on the adjacent nerve or spinal cord. This condition typically occurs at spine level C4/C5, C5/C6, C6/C7. Cervical Disc Replacement is not advised when there is cervical spine instability, significant facet joint damage or infection.

Fusion is a surgical technique in which one or more of the vertebrae of the spine are joined together ('fused') to cease the motion between them. Then bone grafts are placed around the spine which heal after several months. However, studies show that the stress on vertebrae involved in surgery may cause Disc Degeneration in other parts of cervical spine.In contrast the Cervical Disc Prosthesis replaces the cervical disc that is removed by the surgeon. The artificial disc is designed to allow motion at the treated level.

This surgery will ease the compression of spinal cord which is caused by the damaged discs in the spine. The design of prosthesis is such that it allows a range of motion without any difficulty.

You'll be instructed by your surgeon to get a complete physical examination by your physician to assess your overall health before the surgery. If you are on medication then you must inform the same to your doctor. He might ask you to discontinue some of the medicines. Simultaneously, you should make your recovery easier by planning some changes at your home in advance. For instance, you must keep all important things close at hand, remove all safety hazards like uneven surfaces or sharp objects that might cause imbalance.

In this surgery, doctors surgically remove your damaged or diseased disc by making an incision in front of the neck and replace it by Cervical Disc Prosthesis. This prosthesis is utilised as a 'ball and socket' design that enables a range of motion without any restriction.

Your surgeon will provide you with a specific recovery plan after your surgery. For better outcome and fast recovery you should rigorously pursue the plan and adhere to doctor's instructions. As you recover in the hospital, a physical therapist may see you to begin your exercise programme which will help you improve your strength and mobility. The aim is to enable you to perform all body movements and activities without putting any extra strain on your neck. Recovering from pain and surgery is a constant process. The pace of your recovery depends a lot on your dedication and correct manner of body movements and exercises.

You should always follow your surgeon's instructions such as seeing your physical therapist regularly.
You should be precise about proper movements and exercises advised by your physical therapist as you begin your active lifestyle. Using normal motion for everyday activities will not harm your spine in any way. However, to improve flexibility, strength, and endurance you may be required to do slight changes in your daily activities. Your physical therapist will teach you different ways of standing, sitting or lifting to protect your neck from any strain or injury. Before your discharge from hospital, your surgeon may prescribe follow-up visits for a consistent evaluation of your progress and to make any alteration in your activity level and medication, if required. At times, your surgeon may advise follow-up tests to ensure you are healing properly.

AHI is a centre of excellence for Orthopaedic Care. It has a highly qualified and well trained team of Orthopaedicians with expertise in Trauma Care, Joint Replacement Surgery, Spine Surgery and Minimally Invasive Orthopaedics Surgery.It also has a large and well equipped Physiotherapy unit for quick Rehabilitation and Recovery.