Cervical total disc replacement (CTDR), one of the latest breakthroughs in spine surgery, CTDR is transforming how orthopedic surgeons treat degenerative disc disease in the neck. The procedure has delivered fairly consistent results in easing the symptoms of degenerative disc disease (DDD) and relieving neck pain, without limiting the range of motion. Many patients in Texas and other parts of the US have returned to sports and physically demanding professions after cervical disc replacement surgery. Continuing the discussion, in this post, we take a look at the specifics of CTDR.

CTDR vs. ACDF

For decades, ACDF used to be the standard treatment for degenerative disc disease. In this procedure, the diseased cervical disc is surgically removed and the vertebrae above and below are permanently fused together. Although ACDF can provide relief from pain to a certain extent, patients who undergo the surgery may experience restricted mobility. CTDR, on the other hand, preserves the motor functions of the spine without putting additional stress on vertebrae both above and below the surgical site.

The Procedure

CTDR is a minimally invasive surgical procedure in which the surgeon is required to make a small incision in the front of the neck. In most cases, the surgeon makes a 1- to 2-inch incision and removes the problematic cervical disc. The damaged disc is replaced by an artificial disc, after which the incision is closed with sutures.

The Benefits of CTDR

Cervical total disc replacement (CTDR) has several advantages over anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). These include:

● Maintained range of motion

● Minimized occurrence of adjacent segment deterioration

● Lower rate of reoperation

Wrap Up

CTDR, although a highly effective procedure, may not be suitable for everyone. The procedure is recommended for selected levels of the spine, and generally, it is not supposed to be preceded by another cervical fusion. If you or a loved one has been experiencing persistent neck pain, contact a physician referral center in Plano, which can connect you to experienced surgeons specializing in disc replacement surgery.