Cervical Disc Replacement: What You Need to Know
Neck pain and stiffness can make even simple tasks difficult. For many patients, cervical disc replacement offers a solution that preserves motion and relieves pain caused by degenerative disc disease or other spine conditions.
Who is a Candidate for Cervical Disc Replacement?
Patients who have not found relief through conservative treatments—like physical therapy or medications—may benefit from cervical disc replacement. Compared to spinal fusion, this procedure:
Maintains a greater range of motion
Reduces the risk of additional procedures
Decreases post-surgical pain
Dr. Edward Jung evaluates each patient individually, using diagnostic imaging like MRI or X-rays to determine whether cervical disc replacement is the best option.
What Happens During Surgery?
Depending on your case, you may undergo:
- Total Disc Replacement: The entire damaged disc is removed and replaced with a metal or biopolymer implant
- Disc Nucleus Replacement: Only the center of the disc is replaced, preserving more of your natural disc structure
The surgery typically takes 2–3 hours, with an incision in the neck allowing access to the affected disc.
Mobi-C Cervical Disc Replacement
The Mobi-C disc is widely used for cervical disc replacement. It restores disc height, reduces pressure on nerves, and allows normal neck motion, making it an excellent alternative to fusion for eligible patients.
Recovery After Cervical Disc Replacement
Patients usually stay in the hospital for 1–2 days. Early, gentle movements and adherence to post-surgical guidelines help speed recovery. Avoiding hyperextension or high-impact activity is crucial to protect the new disc.
Schedule a Consultation in Seattle, WA
If neck pain or degenerative disc disease is affecting your quality of life, Dr. Jung can help. Our spine clinic near Kirkland, Bellevue, and the Eastside provides personalized treatment plans, including cervical disc replacement. Call (206) 860-5578 today to schedule your consultation, or contact our office through our secure online form.