Overview
Artificial disc replacement (ADR) is a procedure which involves replacement of one or more intervertebral discs of the cervical spine with implants to allow motion preservation. This procedure is used to treat disc herniations, cervical spinal stenosis, radiculopathy, and myelopathy. The surgery is performed through the front of the neck with a small 1-inch incision just off the midline to the left. A dissection is carried through a small amount of muscle and the structures of the neck are retracted out of the surgical field to expose the vertebrae and the disc(s). Next, the intervertebral disc is removed, effectively taking the pressure of the nerves and spinal cord. In its place, a composite implant is fit carefully between the vertebrae.
Post operative expectations
Many patients report rapid relief of symptoms shortly after surgery. The most common complaint
after surgery is of minor difficulty swallowing and hoarseness in the voice which generally
resolves within a few days. Activity is restricted for a short time after surgery. Most patients can
return to work after 4-6 weeks and are ready to return to full, unrestricted activities by 2½ -3
months.
