Cervical Disc Replacement: Motion-Preserving Neck Surgery
Cervical disc replacement removes the damaged disc through the same small anterior incision as an ACDF, but instead of fusing the bones, an artificial disc is implanted to preserve motion at that level. For appropriately selected patients, it offers the same relief of arm pain and nerve compression while keeping the neck moving naturally, with evidence suggesting a lower rate of problems developing at adjacent levels over the following years.
Dr. Daggubati is a strong advocate for motion preservation and offers one- and two-level disc replacement.
Who it is for
- One- or two-level cervical disc herniation with arm pain or mild myelopathy
- Age typically 20s–60s with good bone quality
- Preserved motion at the affected level without significant facet arthritis
- No instability or deformity
Why we use it
- Preserves natural neck motion
- No bone healing required — faster return to activity
- No bone growth stimulator, no fusion-related restrictions
- Lower rate of adjacent-level degeneration in long-term studies
- Same small incision and short stay as ACDF
How the procedure is done
- General anesthesia; small incision in a neck crease.
- The disc is removed and the nerves decompressed under the microscope, exactly as in ACDF.
- The disc space is precisely sized and prepared.
- The artificial disc is implanted and its position confirmed on X-ray.
- Closure with absorbable sutures and skin glue.
Recovery
Walk the day of surgery; home the same or next day. Gentle neck motion is encouraged. Driving and desk work at 1–2 weeks; lifting limited for four weeks; most activities resumed by six weeks.
Risks, stated plainly
Similar to ACDF (swallowing discomfort, hoarseness, infection, nerve injury). Device-specific risks include heterotopic ossification (spontaneous bone formation that limits motion) and, rarely, implant migration. Dr. Daggubati reviews the specific risks for your situation in person before any decision is made.
Preparing for this surgery
Dr. Daggubati has written detailed guides for this procedure covering medications to stop, prehabilitation, the day of surgery, and a week-by-week recovery timeline.
Common questions
Does insurance cover disc replacement?
Most insurers cover one- and two-level cervical disc replacement for approved indications. Our office handles prior authorization.
How long does an artificial disc last?
Long-term data now extend past 10 years with low rates of revision. The implants are designed to last a lifetime.