Cervical disc replacement is offered by the best in class orthopedic surgeon at Spine Associates of NYC, led by Sean McCance, MD. Spine Associates of NYC (Manhattan, NY) specializes in state-of-the-art treatments for cervical disc disease and neck pain. Cervical disc replacement (arthroplasty) offers a modern, motion-preserving alternative to traditional spinal fusion — allowing patients to maintain natural neck movement while achieving lasting pain relief and nerve decompression.
For the right candidates, this orthopedic spine procedure can restore mobility, reduce pressure on nerves, and prevent future degeneration at nearby spinal levels — helping you return to a healthy, active lifestyle sooner.
Understanding Cervical Disc Disorders
Your cervical spine, or neck, is made up of seven vertebrae separated by intervertebral discs that provide flexibility and shock absorption. Over time, these discs can wear down (degeneration) or rupture (herniation), compressing spinal nerves or the spinal cord.
Common symptoms include:
- Persistent neck pain or stiffness
- Pain radiating into the shoulder or arm
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the upper extremities
- Restricted neck mobility
- When non-surgical measures such as physical therapy, medications, or injections fail to provide relief, surgical options like cervical disc replacement may be recommended.
What Is Cervical Disc Replacement (Arthroplasty)?
Cervical disc replacement involves removing a damaged disc and replacing it with an artificial disc implant designed to mimic the function and movement of a natural disc. Unlike spinal fusion, which eliminates motion at the treated level, disc replacement preserves flexibility and alignment of the cervical spine.
Benefits of Cervical Disc Replacement:
- Maintains normal neck motion
- Decreases stress on adjacent discs
- Promotes faster recovery and return to activity
- Delivers long-lasting relief of neck and arm pain
Ideal Candidates for Disc Replacement at Spine Associates of NYC:
You may be a candidate for cervical disc replacement if you have:
- One or two levels of disc degeneration or herniation (C3–C7)
- Radiating arm pain, numbness, or weakness due to nerve compression
- Good spinal alignment and bone quality
- No significant arthritis, instability, or deformity
- Limited improvement from non-surgical treatments
- Each patient receives a personalized diagnostic evaluation, including MRI, X-rays, and a full neurological exam, to ensure the best approach for their condition.
How the Procedure Is Performed
- Cervical disc replacement is typically performed under general anesthesia and involves the following steps:
- A small incision is made in the front of the neck.
- The affected disc is removed under magnification.
- Nerve roots and the spinal cord are carefully decompressed.
- A precision-engineered artificial disc — such as Mobi-C®, Prestige LP®, or ProDisc-C® — is inserted to restore natural motion and spacing.
- The incision is closed with dissolvable sutures.
- Most patients are discharged the same day or after one overnight stay (this varies from case to case).
Recovery and Long-Term Results
- Because motion is preserved, recovery after disc replacement is generally faster and more comfortable than with fusion surgery.
- Light activities: within several days
- Return to desk work: 2–4 weeks
- Sports and heavy exercise: 6–12 weeks (based on healing and medical guidance)
- Follow-up imaging confirms implant positioning, range of motion, and continued spinal health. Studies show excellent long-term outcomes for pain reduction, function, and patient satisfaction.
Why Choose Dr. Sean McCance
- Board-Certified Orthopedic Spine Surgeon with over 25 years of experience
- Director of Spine Associates of NYC, located at 1155 Park Avenue on Manhattan’s Upper East Side
- Expertise in both fusion and motion-preserving spine technologies
- Personalized, concierge-level care from initial consultation through full recovery
- Recognized nationally for surgical excellence and innovation in spine care
Our best in class, Upper East Side, NYC back & neck pain diagnosis & surgery practice, Spine Associates, is honored to provide you with highly personalized and comprehensive care. Our philosophy of direct management of your case by an expert spine surgeon has made us one of the most trusted and respected spine surgery practices on the Upper East Side in NYC and the world. Feel free to contact the back & neck pain diagnosis and spine surgery specialist today to discuss your neck fracture and start yourself on the road to recovery.
Dr. Sean McCance
1155 Park Avenue, Suite E
New York, NY 10128
(212) 360-6500
