If your neck pain is keeping you from doing the things you love, you may be a candidate for cervical disc replacement. Dr. Rojeh Melikian is a cervical disc replacement surgeon who utilizes this minimally invasive technique to preserve spinal movement.
What Is Cervical Disc Replacement?
Cervical disc replacement is a common surgery used to treat damaged spinal discs and severe neck pain. Instead of removing the problem disc and fusing the bones, Dr. Melikian replaces it with a prosthetic disc, which helps your neck move more naturally. The primary goal of an artificial neck disc replacement is to relieve pressure on the nerves, restore movement and enable you to resume your normal activities.
Who Is a Candidate for Cervical Disc Replacement?
If you are experiencing chronic neck pain, arm pain or numbness due to a damaged disc in the neck, you might be a candidate for cervical disc replacement. This procedure is often recommended for people who have not received relief from nonsurgical solutions, such as medication or physical therapy. Dr. Melikian can review your symptoms, medical history and imaging tests to determine if this surgery is right for you.
Exploring Cervical Artificial Disc vs. Fusion
While cervical disc replacement and spinal fusions treat damaged discs in the neck, they use different methods. In a spinal fusion, the surgeon removes the herniated disc and permanently joins the two bones together, relieving pain but limiting neck movement.
Instead, some advantages of cervical disc replacement include:
- Natural movement: A cervical disc replacement preserves neck motion for natural movement. The prosthetic disc acts as a cushion in the spine to mimic a healthy disc.
- Quicker recovery: Because cervical disc replacement is a minimally invasive surgery, it offers a faster recovery than fusion surgery. After surgery, patients can experience fewer restrictions and return to normal daily activities more quickly.
- Less stress on nearby discs: Preserving movement reduces stress and the risk of wearing out discs above and below the surgery site. This technique can also reduce the need for future surgery on nearby levels.
What to Expect From the Cervical Artificial Disc Replacement Procedure
During a cervical artificial disc replacement, you will be under general anesthesia for the whole procedure. Dr. Melikian will make a small incision in the front of your neck to reach the damaged disc. The damaged disc is carefully removed, and an artificial disc is placed.
This surgery usually takes an hour or two from start to finish, and most patients can go home the same day or after one night. It is normal to experience a sore throat or mild neck discomfort for a few days. Dr. Melikian will walk you through the process and provide specific instructions about your activity and follow-up care.
Why Choose Rojeh Melikian, M.D. for Cervical Disc Replacement?
Dr. Rojeh Melikian is a board-certified, Harvard and Emory University-trained spine surgeon. He specializes in minimally invasive techniques to treat a wide variety of spinal disorders. With his team of medical professionals, Dr. Melikian provides one-on-one care for optimized patient outcomes.
Take the Next Step Toward Relief With Dr. Melikian Today
Dr. Melikian and his team proudly serve Marina del Rey, Newport Beach, Los Angeles, CA, and beyond. Contact a clinic near you to schedule a consultation today.