The cervical spine is made up of seven bones called cervical vertebrae that are placed on top of each other to form the neck. The cushions that rest in between the cervical vertebrae are called cervical discs. They serve as shock absorbers, letting your neck move naturally.
Additionally, the upper portion of your spinal cord can travel through a protected tunnel formed by your cervical spine. The spinal nerves that provide movement and sensation to your upper body are located in this section of your spinal cord.
What is Cervical Disc Replacement Surgery?
A cervical disc replacement (CDR) is a technique where an artificial disc is used to replace a damaged disc between the vertebrae in your neck. Discs are cushions that resemble gel and serve to lessen friction between your vertebrae.
Reducing pain and increasing neck mobility are the two main objectives of CDR. CDR is also referred to as total disc replacement (TDR) and anterior cervical disc arthroplasty (ACDR). CDR is an alternative to more rigid spinal fusion techniques, which result in the permanent joining of two vertebrae.
Our spine’s discs may deteriorate due to aging, trauma, or specific medical disorders. You may experience pain, numbness, or weakness down your arm if a damaged disc in your neck presses against the roots of neighboring nerves.
Who is an Ideal Candidate for Cervical Disc Replacement Surgery?
A herniated disc that is causing neurological (nervous system) symptoms or movement issues is a perfect candidate for CDR. The jelly-like center of a disc pushes through the rubbery outer layer to cause a herniated disc, also known as a slipped disc. It may result from a recent injury or from years of disc degeneration brought on by repeated use.
Individuals who suffer from cervical disc degeneration and exhibit neurological symptoms such as:
- Instability of the neck
- Myelopathy, or severe spinal stenosis (spinal cord compression)
- Significant deterioration of the spine
- Numbness
- Weakness
- Discs less than three millimeters in thickness
To determine whether CDR is a good fit for you, your doctor will assess your condition and risk factors.
Cervical Disc Replacement Surgery Cost in India
Cervical Disc Replacement Surgery Cost in India starts from Rs. 2,50,000 to Rs. 5,00,000 (3000 USD to 6000 USD). The standard of medical care and services is on par with the world’s top hospitals in terms of quality and standard. This is the main reason why a lot of people travel to India for medical care—there are many other reasons.
| Starting Cost | Rs. 2,50,000 (3000 USD) |
| Average Cost | Rs. 3,75,000 (4500 USD) |
| Maximum Cost | Rs. 5,00,000 (6000 USD) |
In addition, a variety of factors influence the price of medical care in India, such as the kind of care received, the approach taken, the hospital and location of choice, the credentials of the physician, and so forth.
Also read: Total Disc Replacement Surgery Cost in India
Diagnosis for Cervical Disc Replacement Surgery in India
Diagnosis done for cervical disc replacement surgery involves the following steps:
- Medical evaluation: Your doctor will evaluate your symptoms, medical history, and any prior treatment related to your spine issues.
- Physical examination: Examination of your neck and its area will be conducted to assess your range of motion, strength, reflexes, and signs of nerve compression.
- Imaging test: Tests include X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans to visualize the structure of the cervical spine and to identify any disc abnormalities or damage.
- Nerve test: Nerve conductions or Electromyography (EMG) will be used to assess the nerve function and to identify any nerve-related issues.
- Discography: A discography can be recommended to identify specific discs causing pain by injecting contrast dye into the disc and assessing their response.
Treatment For Cervical Disc Replacement Surgery
Usually, general anesthesia is used during CDR to ensure your painlessness. For your comfort during the procedure, the surgeon can place a tube down your neck. Your body will be fitted with sensors to measure your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation. The specific technique varies, but here’s what typically happens:
- Your face will be facing upward as you lie on the operating table for the procedure. You’ll have your head and shoulders strapped in. To eradicate any bacteria on your skin, your skin will be washed.
- Your surgeon will create a 2- to 3-inch incision on one side or the front of your neck.
- To access your vertebrae, they will push the structures in your neck aside.
- Any bone spurs putting pressure on your nerves will be removed by your surgeon along with your disc.
- An artificial disc will be inserted into your neck by them.
- Your surgeon will use stitches and a dressing to seal the incision. To prevent you from moving your head and to keep your neck still, you might be given a neck collar.
Recovery Time After Cervical Disc Replacement Surgery
After a disc replacement procedure, patients often need to spend no more than one or two days in the hospital. One or two more days in the hospital might be necessary for any additional discomfort or unforeseen issues. The patients can walk the next day with the assistance of a collar.
Doctors also recommend a few mild activities during the healing phase. Within a month of the surgery, the physician follows up with the patient to make sure the disc is in place and gets an X-ray to assess the status.
Why Dr. N. K. Magu?
Dr. N. K. Magu is an Indian orthopedic surgeon who is well renowned globally for his extraordinary talent and dedication to his profession. Over many years, Dr. N. K. Magu has proven himself to be an exceptional specialist in several orthopedic fields, especially in the areas of proximal femoral osteotomies, hip preservation, reconstruction, and related subjects. His reputation has been cemented by his continuous commitment to enhancing the quality of life for his many patients.
