Cervical disc replacement

Disc replacement surgery for the neck area of the spine. Cervical discs that become damaged can cause you considerable pain, numbness and weakness that radiates into your arms.

Enquiries & Appointments

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What is a cervical disc replacement?

This procedure is similar to an Anterior Cervical Discectomy with Fusion (ACDF) except that the defect that is created by removing the disc from between the two vertebrae is filled with a disc replacement device.

A disc replacement device is made up of two metallic surfaces one of which is attached to the upper and the other to the lower vertebra at the affected disc level. These metal implants can then slide on each other directly or can be separated by a piece of medical grade plastic.

The device allows for movement between the two vertebrae to be maintained and avoids the need for a fusion. The disc replacement device can be secured in place with screws or a press fit anchor that holds the implant to the bones.

Need to know

Your consultant will make a small incision on the front of your neck, normally 4 to 5 centimetres long. They will then use specialised instruments to remove the disc and any areas of bone which may be compressing either the spinal nerves or the spinal cord. Once the disc has been removed a disc replacement is inserted.
Your consultant will tell you how best to prepare for the treatment. Any surgery will take place under general anaesthetic which means you'll be asleep for the duration. Your consultants will explain the possible outcomes to you.

You will be given painkillers following surgery to combat any pain you experience around the incision. The approach to the spinal column requires some pressure on the voice box and therefore it is normal for your voice to be hoarse for between a few days and weeks following surgery. Occasionally permanent changes to the speech can occur.

Our nursing staff will aim to have you out of bed and walking on the first day after your procedure. Depending on the rate of your recovery you can expect to stay in hospital for between 1 and 3 days. Recovery will continue at home, with regular outpatient appointments to check on your progress.

It is important to understand that disc replacement is a newer procedure with less of a track record than the more traditional ACDF.

Recent studies have shown that cervical disc replacement results are equivalent to those of ACDF. The risks associated with cervical disc replacement are similar to those with an ACDF.

Your consultant will explain the procedure and answer any questions you might have.

Our Cervical disc replacement consultants

Mr Ramsey Chammaa

Mr Ramsey Chammaa

Orthopaedic Surgery

Mr Rohit Shetty

Mr Rohit Shetty

Orthopaedic Surgery

Mr Nicholas Thomas

Mr Nicholas Thomas

Neurosurgery

Mr Parag Sayal

Mr Parag Sayal

Neurosurgery

Our Cervical disc replacement locations

The Lister Hospital

The Lister Hospital

Chelsea Bridge Road, SW1W 8RH London
The Wellington Hospital

The Wellington Hospital

8A Wellington Place NW8 9LE London
The Wilmslow Hospital

The Wilmslow Hospital

52-54 Alderley Road SK9 1NY Wilmslow
London Bridge Hospital

London Bridge Hospital

27 Tooley Street SE1 2PR London
The Harley Street Clinic

The Harley Street Clinic

35 Weymouth Street W1G 8BJ London
The Princess Grace Hospital

The Princess Grace Hospital

42-52 Nottingham Place W1U 5NY London
The Shard Outpatients

The Shard Outpatients

The Shard, 32 St Thomas Street SE1 9BS London
Chiswick Outpatients

Chiswick Outpatients

Bond House 347-353 Chiswick High Road W4 4HS London

Patient stories

This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.