In order to provide cushioning for movement and the weight of the body, discs are present between each bone of the cervical spine. As with any other part of the spine, these discs can herniate or bulge, leading to weakness, numbness, pain and even tingling sensations in the arms and hands. Various causes exist for these issues, including an accident or overuse.
For years, spinal fusion surgery has served as the normal treatment for poor cervical discs. To return the disc to normal height and remove pressure, a bone spacer or plastic implant replaces the problem disc in this procedure. The problem with this solution is that the fused area can no longer move, which can create more stress itself, possibly resulting in degeneration and even more surgery.
Cervical artificial disc replacement surgery may be an appropriate treatment option for you if you:
- Are experiencing intolerable neck pain
- Are experiencing pain radiating down your arms
- Are experiencing numbness or weakness in your hands and extremities
- Have exhausted non-surgical therapies
- Require treatment only at one level of the neck
- Are at least 18 years of age with skeletal maturity
- Do not have an active infection
- Do not have an allergy to stainless steel
The Prestige® Cervical Disc is an artificial disc replacement device that offers an alternative to spinal fusion. Although spinal fusion often provides good outcomes – it results in loss of motion and flexibility at the treated level.
Proven safe and effective in the largest clinical trial conducted and completed in the cervical spine, the Prestige Cervical Disc is designed to maintain motion in the neck.
To determine whether cervical artificial disc replacement surgery is the right treatment for you, your doctor will perform a physical exam and other diagnostic testing, such as a spinal x-ray, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) scan, myelogram, and/or a bone scan.
It is important that you discuss the potential risks, complications, and benefits of cervical artificial disc replacement surgery with your doctor prior to receiving treatment. Rely on your doctor’s judgment. Only your doctor can determine whether you are a suitable candidate for this treatment.
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