Cervical Disc Replacement

Neck & Cervical Spine Anatomy

The vertebral bodies encase the spinal cord to provide protection. When stacked on top of each other, they form the spinal column which provides stability for the head and upper body. The spinal cord and the nerve exits are located within the spinal canal. The intervertebral discs are located between the vertebral bodies. These discs cushion shock forces, acting as “shock absorbers”. The discs in conjunction with the vertebral joints facilitate motion by turning, stretching and bending of the neck.

Degenerative Changes in the Spine

Degenerative changes of the spine occur from natural aging associated with pathological changes of the vertebral bodies, intervertebral discs, ligaments, and vertebral joints.These changes can greatly limit both the mobility and stability of the spine. The stability of the spine can also be compromised by unnatural weight distribution caused by a hereditary abnormality, or a lack of movement associated with a sedentary lifestyle. Any previous operation or trauma to the spinal column can also cause a loss of stability. Any form of instability can progress to become a pain generator.

Herniated Discs

The described degenerative changes or trauma can cause tears in the intervertebral disc. The escape of the nucleus (or soft interior) of the intervertebral disc outward through these tears may cause a disc herniation.   The disc herniation can impinge on the nerves and depending on the location can cause pain in the neck, arms, and shoulders. In the extreme case, it can cause paralysis.

prodisc^® C System of Total Disc Replacement Devices

The treatment goal of the prodisc C Total Disc Replacement system is to restore the normal dynamic function of the spine and to significantly reduce pain.

The function of the spine is restored through the mechanism of action of the device.  Pain reduction is achieved through the re-establishment of the disc height and maintained by the prosthesis. The increase in height and the elimination of the herniated disc “opens” constricted nerve paths and the vertebral joints are restored to their physiological position.

Prior to the development of artificial discs, the only surgical option was a fusion, in which adjacent vertebral bodies are “fused together” permanently using implants, bone chips and/or cages. The goal of the prodisc C Total Disc Replacement device is to maintain mobility at the affected intervertebral disc and to reduce the extra loading on the adjacent intervertebral discs.

Goals of a Cervical Disc Replacement

Degenerative disc disease can destabilize segments over time. In addition, performing the surgical discectomy is inherently destabilizing, as it involves the removal of the Anterior Longitudinal Ligament, the disc, and often, the Posterior Longitudinal Ligament^[i]. In the absence of these restricting structures, it is important for a disc replacement to have constraints in order to protect the facet joints.

In order to provide constraint, the prodisc mechanism of action enables movement with a fixed center of motion, enabling A/P translation only with flexion / extension^[ii],[iii].

Dr. Siegal has now partnered with Centinel Spine to bring you a better option.The revolutionary prodisc cervical disc replacement products can provide you with a range of motion in the neck comparable to your original disc.

Why is a Disc Replacement Better than a Fusion?

With a disc replacement, you will have a greater range of motion compared to fusion surgery. Disc replacement is generally a better alternative to fusion surgery because it gives you back a greater range of motion and allows you to continue doing what you love.

Rory Sabbatini’s Journey with the prodisc^® Artificial Cervical Disc