Cervical Disc Arthroplasty

Cervical Disc Arthroplasty services offered in Wasilla, AK

When it’s time for cervical disc arthroplasty or other surgical solutions, turn to the team of orthopedic surgeons at Pioneer Peak Orthopedics in Wasilla, Alaska. The skilled team uses cervical disc arthroscopy to replace damaged tissue and preserve your flexibility and range of motion. To learn more about the full potential of this procedure, call the office. You can also drop into the practice’s orthopedic walk-in clinic if you’re struggling with neck pain.

What is cervical disc arthroplasty?

Cervical disc arthroplasty, or cervical disc replacement surgery, involves removing a damaged or diseased intervertebral disc in the cervical spine (neck) and replacing it with an artificial disc. Your provider may recommend it as an alternative to spinal fusion because this joint replacement procedure is designed to help you maintain mobility in your neck.

When is cervical disc arthroplasty necessary?

The cervical discs maintain your neck mobility and function and cushion your vertebrae as long as they’re healthy. Each disc consists of a strong outer ring and a soft, gel-like center.

While these discs are remarkably strong, they can become compressed, dried out, or damaged, interfering with nearby nerves. Replacing a damaged disc can relieve pain and protect your nervous system.

Would cervical disc arthroplasty help me?

You may be a good candidate for this surgery if you:

Are at least 18 and have reached skeletal maturity
Have been diagnosed with myelopathy, cervical radiculopathy, or both
Have disc herniation and/or bone spurs
Aren’t pregnant or nursing

If you have ongoing pain that hasn’t improved with conservative treatment measures like physical therapy, exercise, or pain relievers, talk to the Pioneer Peak Orthopedics team and explore options for relief.

After a thorough physical examination and diagnostic testing, your provider determines whether cervical artificial disc replacement surgery can improve your quality of life.

What happens during cervical disc arthroplasty?

To replace a cervical disc, your surgeon makes a small incision in the front of the neck and carefully moves the soft tissues away from the spine, protecting them from damage. They remove the damaged disc and prepare the adjacent bone to receive the implant.

Once the artificial disc is in place and secure, they ease the soft tissues back into place, close the incision, and confirm proper placement with an X-ray.

What is recovery like after cervical disc arthroplasty?

Your surgeon provides a detailed post-operative recovery plan so you can return to your regular routine as soon as possible. The length of your hospital stay depends on your treatment and physical condition. Typically, you’ll be up and walking the day after surgery.

Work closely with the Pioneer Peak Orthopedics team as you recover and follow their instructions to make your healing process faster and easier.

Call Pioneer Peak Orthopedics today to talk to the team about cervical disc arthroplasty.