In my practice as a spinal neurosurgeon, I emphasize motion preservation surgery.
As such, I have had several patients with previous cervical spine fusions who asked me if there was any hope of switching to an artificial disc. While many spine surgeons may think it is impossible, I have been able to answer, “Yes” to select patients. In my practice I have found that artificial discs can be used to revise cervical fusions safely and effectively in specific situations.
Artificial disc replacement corrects a failed fusion
A young man with a previous anterior cervical fusion came to see me complaining of severe, chronic neck and arm pain. He was interested in motion preservation surgery and was keenly interested in the possibility of having an artificial disc replacement—he certainly did not want another fusion.
