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Operating techniques
About the treatment
Cervical disc prosthesis
Procedure
Cervical disc prosthesis is a modern alternative to spinal fusion. It consists in removing a worn or damaged cervical disc, responsible for pain or nerve compression, and replacing it with a mobile prosthesis. This prosthesis mimics the natural movement of the disc, helping to maintain neck mobility and reduce pain.
The procedure is performed under general anaesthetic, using an anterior approach (at the front of the neck), with an incision of just a few centimetres. The procedure is precise, with minimal impact on surrounding tissue.
Steps and Benefits
- Preservation of neck mobility thanks to a prosthesis that reproduces natural movement.
- Relieves nerve pain through effective decompression.
- No bone fusion, avoiding blockage of the operated vertebra.
- Less stress on other discs, limiting the risk of adjacent degeneration.
- Rapid recovery with return to normal activities within a few weeks.
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Hospitalisation
Cervical prosthetic surgery: short hospital stay (usually 1 night).
Early rising on the day of surgery, with assistance from nursing staff.
Back home
Discharge usually the following day.
Return by private car or taxi/VSL, wearing a cervical collar if prescribed.
Post-operative care
Monitor neck pain, take painkillers if necessary.
No complex dressing or nursing care, simple scar.
Back to school or back to work
Gradual resumption of activities within 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the type of activity.
Rehabilitation / Physiotherapy
Start: 2 to 4 weeks after surgery.
Duration: 1 to 3 months, depending on recovery.
Pace: 2 to 3 sessions a week, daily exercises recommended.
Objective: Cervical mobility, muscle strengthening, posture.
Wearing a cervical collar as indicated.
Neurological complications: Less than 5%.
Neurological disorders may occur, including muscle weakness, neuropathic pain or, in exceptional cases, partial paralysis. This risk is linked to the proximity of nerve structures around the spinal cord or nerve roots.
Infection: Less than 1%
The risk of infection is low, but possible. It may involve the skin, underlying tissues or the deep surgical site. In the event of infection, antibiotics are administered. Rarely, re-operation for surgical cleaning or prosthesis replacement is required.
Hemorrhagic complications
Bleeding may occur during or after the procedure. Significant hemorrhage requiring transfusion is rare. A compressive hematoma may cause pain or neurological deficit, sometimes warranting repeat surgery.
Migration or wear of the prosthesis
The prosthesis may shift or wear out over time, resulting in pain or loss of mobility. In some cases, further surgery may be required to reposition or replace the implant.
Persistence or Recurrence of Symptoms
Despite surgery, certain symptoms may persist, such as cervical stiffness or residual pain. Regular monitoring and follow-up can help to adapt management.
FAQ
Answers for our patients
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
How can I make an appointment?
You can book an appointment directly on our website or by telephone on 04 72 43 03 43 (choice 1).
How long does it take to get an appointment?
Appointments take around 1 to 2 months. In an emergency, your GP can contact us directly by email.
How does the first consultation work?
At your first consultation, you will complete an iPad questionnaire in the waiting room so the doctor has your information in advance. The consultation will then determine whether surgical or non-surgical treatment is needed.
What documents should I bring to my visit?
Please bring your carte vitale, your GP's referral letter, and any radiological examinations already carried out.
