There are seven vertebral bones on the spinal column that form the cervical spine and are located in the neck region. The neck bears the weight of the head and allows significant amount of movement. Cervical disc replacement is a surgical procedure that involves removing a damaged or degenerated cervical disc and replacing it with an artificial disc device.  Cervical discs are the cushions or shock absorbers between the bones vertebrae of the neck (cervical spine).  Discs that become damaged either through trauma or degeneration can be a source of pain.  Disc disruption and degeneration can be a source of neck pain as well as cause neurologic symptoms which may include pain, numbness or weakness that radiates from the neck into one or both arms.

How Does this Procedure Work?

With a total cervical disc replacement, Dr. Raskas will make a 1 to 2-inch incision on one side of your neck where he will remove the damaged and protruding disc and associated bone spurs in order to relieve any pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots.  After preparing the disc space, Dr. Raskas will replace the disc with a disc replacement device and carefully place into position between the vertebrae and then close the incision.

Because every patient is unique and treatment options range from minimally invasive back surgery to advanced surgical procedures, recovery varies greatly among his patients and is dependent on the extent of your surgery, age and health.

For more information about a cervical total disc replacement or other spinal surgery options to treat back pain, contact Dr. David S. Raskas at 314-966-8887.