Mr Irfan Malik Robotic, Endoscopic, and Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgeon in South London

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Published: 10/07/2025
Edited by: Odette Sotillo on 16/07/2025

Cervical disc replacement is an advanced surgical option for patients suffering from neck or arm pain caused by a worn or herniated disc in the cervical spine.

In this article, consultant spinal surgeon Mr Irfan Malik explains who it's suitable for and the key stages of the procedure.

What is cervical disc replacement?

Cervical disc replacement, also known as cervical arthroplasty, is a procedure where a damaged disc in the neck is removed and replaced with an artificial disc. This helps restore normal motion between the vertebrae while relieving pressure on nearby nerves and the spinal cord.

Unlike traditional spinal fusion, which eliminates motion at the affected level, disc replacement aims to preserve mobility and reduce the chance of adjacent segment degeneration.

Who is a candidate for cervical disc replacement?

This procedure is typically offered to patients who:

Have persistent neck pain, radiating arm pain, numbness or weakness.
Have a herniated or degenerated disc at one or two levels in the cervical spine.
Have not improved with non-operative treatments such as physiotherapy, medications or targeted spinal injections.

Not suitable:

Patients with significant cervical instability, severe arthritis (facet joint degeneration), previous spinal fusion, osteoporosis, or multi-level disc disease may not be suitable for disc replacement.

Step 1: Pre-operative assessment

Before surgery, a full assessment is carried out. This usually includes:

A detailed consultation and physical examination.
MRI and CT scans to locate the damaged disc.
Discussions around treatment options, risks, and expected outcomes.

You may also undergo blood tests and anaesthetic evaluation to ensure you are fit for surgery.

Step 2: The procedure itself

The operation is performed under general anaesthesia and typically takes between 60–90 minutes. The key steps include:

1. Anterior approach to the spine

A small incision is made at the front of the neck, usually along a natural skin crease. This allows access to the cervical spine without disturbing muscles at the back of the neck.

2. Removal of the damaged disc

The affected disc is carefully removed (discectomy) to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots. Any bone spurs or loose disc fragments are also cleared.

3. Implant placement

An artificial disc is inserted into the space. The device is chosen to best match the patient’s anatomy and preserve motion at that level.

4. Wound closure

The incision is closed with dissolvable sutures and covered with a small dressing. A neck collar is not typically required.

Step 3: Recovery and aftercare

Most patients stay in hospital for one night, though some may be discharged the same day depending on the centre and clinical circumstances.

Recovery timeline:

Week 1–2: mild neck discomfort and swallowing difficulty, both of which usually settle quickly.
Week 2–4: most patients can resume light work and driving (depending on job type and recovery progress).
Week 6–12: full return to normal daily activities, including gym, travel, and non-contact sports.

Formal physiotherapy is not always required, but some patients benefit from guided rehabilitation.

What are the risks of cervical disc replacement?

While the procedure is generally safe and well-tolerated, all surgery carries risks. These include:

Infection
Bleeding or haematoma
Injury to nerves, spinal cord or surrounding structures (oesophagus or vocal cords)
Difficulty swallowing (usually temporary)
Prosthesis-related issues (misalignment, wear, or need for revision surgery)