PROCEDURES EXPLAINEDArtificial Cervical Disc Replacement
Artificial disc replacement is a procedure with the goal of removing a painful intervertebral disc and replacing it with a prosthetic one. Spinal fusion is much more commonly performed, and not all patients will be eligible for disc replacement. Usually at least 6 months of aggressive nonsurgical treatment should be performed prior to attempting surgery. The device replacing the diseased disc improves structural stability, reduces inflammation, and allows most patients to recover quickly. The range of motion of the implant is similar to that of a hip replacement, which is a well practiced procedure with robust literary support.
Patient Animation VideoAnterior Cervical Disc Replacement (ACDR)
What to Expect
- You will have an IV placed in your arm or hand for the delivery of anesthetic to put you into a deep sleep and prevent pain during your surgery. You will be lying on your back for this procedure.
- Your surgical team will usually consist of a vascular surgeon as well as an orthopedic or neurosurgeon. An incision into the abdomen will be made, and organs and vessels will be moved aside to provide access to the spine.
- Your surgeon will remove the diseased disc, and set the artificial replacement. Your organs and blood vessels will be returned to their original position, and the incision will be closed. Steri-strips may be placed to facilitate healing.
- You will then be taken to a recovery area for close monitoring until you awaken. You will still have your IV, and may have a catheter to help facilitate urination while you recover. You may also have a sore throat from intubation. When you are fully alert and awake, you will then be returned to your hospital room.
Experiencing Symptoms of Artificial Disc Replacement?
Common Risks and/or Frequently Asked Questions
Bleeding
Blood clots
Nerve damage
Return of symptoms
Infection
Disc Failure
Post Procedural Instructions
- Activity Restriction
- Pain Management
- Incision Care
- Call if
- Desk jobs may be returned to in about 2 weeks, but others may require 4 weeks or more
- Do not drive or operate heavy machinery while taking narcotics
- Do not try to lift more than 10 pounds
- Do not smoke
- Walk as often as is comfortable on non-slippery surfaces
- Be mindful of body motion practices, as discussed with your physical therapist
- Post-procedural pain may last days to weeks as the inflammation subsides
- Do NOT take NSAIDs in the first few months following surgery, as they can interfere with the bone healing process
- Take your prescribed pain medication as recommended, and inform your care team if relief is inadequate. It is normal to feel some degree of pain during the recovery process, but it should not be excruciating.
- Unless otherwise stated, your incisions are most likely sutured from the inside.
- Dressings may be removed about 48 hours after surgery, and incisions should be washed with soap and water
- Do NOT soak the incision site, baths, hot tubs, and pools should be avoided for 2-3 weeks until the wounds have fully healed
- Sunblock with SPF 30 or greater may be used to protect healing skin from discoloration, as new skin will lack the sun protectant pigment melanin
- Fever of 101.5 F or greater
- Redness, swelling, warmth around the incision site
- New neurological symptoms, such as weakness or loss of sensation that was not present before
- Loss of bowel or bladder control that is new
- Severe Pain
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
- Severe Headaches
- Calf Swelling, as this may be a sign of thrombosis
- Chest pain, difficulty breathing, or cough
Common
Recovery Timeline
Recovery from artificial disc surgery is usually faster than other spinal surgeries, as there is no bone in need of healing. It can take a few weeks to a few months for patients to recover, but in most cases, it takes no more than 3 months. Lifestyle has a major impact on recovery time. Following surgery, it will be necessary for patients to remain in the hospital for a few days to be monitored. After this observation period, patients may return home for the recovery process.
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