An Anterior Cervical Discectomy with the placement of a an Artificial Cervical Disc, is an operation performed on the cervical spine to relieve pressure on one or more nerve roots, or on the spinal cord. The procedure is explained by the words anterior (front), cervical (neck), and discectomy (cutting out the disc).In this operation, the cervical spine is reached through an incision approximately one inch in length in the front of your neck. (See figure 2)

Once the an Artificial Cervical Disc is firmly in place, tension is taken off the vertebral bodies above and below, which compresses the artificial disc and holds it in place. To view an annimation of the Prestige Artifical Disc surgical procedure, click here.

What happens after surgery?
The hospital stay is generally 24-48 hours. During this time, IV fluids may be given while your body recovers and your normal appetite returns. You may move about in bed and rest in any comfortable position when you have recovered from anesthesia. Walking may begin within several hours of surgery. Daily walking is the best exercise, setting a pace that avoids fatigue or severe pain. You may return to work when you are ready, and drive after you regain full coordination.

Successful recovery from anterior cervical discectomy and placement of the an Artificial Disc requires that you approach the operation and recovery with confidence based on a thorough understanding of each process. Your surgeon has the specialized training and expertise to correct physical defects by performing the operation; he and the rest of the health care team will support your body's efforts to heal its damaged tissues. Full recovery will also depend on you having a strong, positive attitude, setting small, realistic goals for improvement, and working steadily to accomplish each goal.