Cervical Arthroplasty
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X-ray after surgery showing a cervical arthroplasty at C6-7.
Cervical Arthroplasty
Cervical arthroplasty is a procedure used to treat a herniated disc in the neck. The disc can cause symptoms such as arm pain, numbness, tingling, and loss of hand dexterity.
The procedure is similar to an ACDF, but is considered to be “motion-sparing” (i.e. not a fusion). The surgeon uses a natural corridor between the layers of the neck to access the front of the spine. The disc between two vertebrae is removed, and a special implant, made to simulate the movement of a joint, is placed between the vertebrae.
Arthroplasty is a relatively new procedure and long-term outcomes are not yet well-established. The choice of procedure depends on several factors including your overall health, symptoms, and spinal anatomy. Expectations and specifics about your case should be discussed in detail with your surgeon.