For many years, spinal fusion has been recognized as the gold standard surgical procedure for patients with cervical disc disease. This surgery entails the removal of an affected, painful disc followed by the fusion of the two adjacent vertebrae with a bone graft and metal plate. It has been shown to be very effective in relieving symptoms; however, the primary problem associated with the procedure is that the mobility of the neck is considerably reduced. Also, there is a possibility that the levels above or below the fusion may later develop disc problems, as they must take more load and motion to compensate for the fused level. This may require treatment or even future surgery.
 
Cervical disc replacement was developed to address these issues: the artificial disc provides shock absorption as well as retaining mobility in the neck. This theoretically reduces the trauma to the adjacent vertebrae and potentially reduces the patient’s chances of future complications at other cervical levels. The recovery time is shorter for this procedure as it eliminates the need for a bone graft, which can take 3 months to one year to solidify completely. The surgery also allows for some flexibility. If a patient has a cervical disc replacement, they can later remove the artificial disc and fuse the adjacent vertebrae together. Contrarily, once a patient has undergone fusion, they cannot undergo a cervical disc replacement.

Most patients with cervical disc disease do not need surgery to manage their symptoms. To be considered, candidates must demonstrate severe neck pain or severe pain, numbness, or weakness that radiates down the shoulder and arm. In almost all cases, patients must have tried conservative treatments such as anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, spinal interventions, etc. for at least 4-6 weeks without seeing significant results. 

Recovery after a cervical disc replacement is relatively quick. Most patients can stand and walk a few hours after the procedure, and can even return home on the same day or following morning. There may be minimal activity restrictions for a short period of time; however, most patients return to their regular activities within a few days or weeks. There may be some mild pain near the incision site, but this will decrease with time.