Cervical Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR) is a procedure used to treat cervical disc problems, such as herniation or degeneration, that cause neck pain and radiating arm pain. This treatment is an alternative to fusion surgery, as it preserves motion in the cervical spine. The artificial disc replaces the damaged cervical disc and aims to restore proper disc function and reduce pain while maintaining spinal flexibility.
The surgeon accesses the cervical spine through an incision in the front of the neck and removes the damaged disc. A prosthetic artificial disc made of metal and plastic is then inserted into the space to replace the natural disc. This procedure is done under general anesthesia, and it is designed to maintain the movement between the cervical vertebrae that would otherwise be lost in fusion surgery.
After surgery, patients may need to wear a cervical collar for support. Physical therapy will be required to help regain neck strength and range of motion. Full recovery can take 3-6 months, with most patients able to resume normal activities within 4-6 weeks, although heavy lifting and strenuous activities should be avoided for several months.
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This treatment info is for informational purposes only. Treatment and recovery vary person to person, and you should consult with your treating physician and team for details on your treatment and recovery process.
