Patient Education Series | Cervical Disk Replacement | Charles Gatto, MD
Dr. Charles A. Gatto is a partner at the Advanced Spine Center and he also serves as Chief of the Spine Section in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Morristown Medical Center in Morristown, NJ. As a board-certified expert in orthopedic surgery with over three decades of experience, Dr. Gatto specializes in addressing... more
Cervical Disk Replacement: A Solution for Neck Pain
Cervical disk replacement (CDR) is an advanced surgical procedure designed to relieve neck pain caused by degenerative disk disease. It involves replacing a damaged cervical disk with an artificial one made of cobalt, titanium, or stainless steel. This helps restore proper disk height, maintain neck mobility, and alleviate nerve compression.
Who Needs Cervical Disk Replacement?
CDR is typically recommended for patients with cervical degenerative disk disease who experience persistent pain, numbness, or weakness despite at least six weeks of conservative treatment. However, certain conditions—such as osteoporosis, metal allergies, or severe arthritis—may disqualify a patient from undergoing this procedure.
What to Expect from Surgery
During the procedure, the surgeon makes an incision in the front of the neck, removes the damaged disk, and implants the artificial replacement. Recovery varies, but most patients return to normal activities within weeks. Studies show CDR provides significant pain relief while preserving neck flexibility.
While risks exist, including infection or adjacent segment degeneration, CDR is a promising alternative to spinal fusion. If you’re considering surgery for neck pain, consult your doctor to determine if cervical disk replacement is right for you.
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