NEUROSURGERY BLOG

How Does Cervical Disc Replacement Differ from Traditional Spinal Surgeries?

Cervical disc replacement is a groundbreaking alternative to traditional spinal surgeries. It offers new hope to patients suffering from degenerative disc diseases who don't want to lose their range of motion or need follow-up surgeries in the future.

Dr. Tim Johans, a capable neurosurgeon in Boise, discusses the benefits of this innovative procedure with his patients, highlighting its less invasive nature, faster recovery times, and superior pain relief capabilities compared to conventional options like spinal fusion.

Dr. Johans is a Diplomat and Fellow of the American Board of Neurological Surgeons, board certified in Pain Management and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and the American Board of Neurological Surgeons. He began his neurosurgical career in 1988 and has been practicing in Boise since 1993. With these credentials, you can trust that Dr. Johans has the specialized knowledge and experience to provide you with an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.

He is a dedicated family man who is heavily involved in his community, is involved in several hospital boards and committees and takes pride in being a faith-driven person. Dr. Johans has had a 3 level neck fusion and can discuss options from his vast personal experience.

We also work closely with other non-surgeons if necessary so that our patients can access all available resources when making decisions regarding their treatment plans. Additionally, our team is always prompt in responding to inquiries and addressing patients' concerns throughout their recovery process. Reviews on Google and Healthgrades show that many individuals who have sought treatment from Dr. Johans have found success in his treatments while feeling comfortable and supported throughout their experiences at our office.

Is Cervical Disc Replacement Less Invasive Than Fusion?

Fusion surgery involves removing the damaged or degenerated disc and replacing it with a titanium cage filled with bone marrow, secured with a plate and screws to fuse the adjacent bones, thereby immobilizing the affected spine area. In contrast, cervical disc replacement involves removing and replacing the damaged disc with an artificial disc, aiming to preserve the natural motion of the treated segment.

Cervical disc replacement is not a less invasive procedure when compared to spinal fusion. It has several advantages and no known disadvantages over fusion surgeries. Additional training and certifications are required to choose and perform the best option for each individual. The surgical approach and techniques to free up the nerve roots and spinal cord are similar. Finishing with a fusion versus a disc replacement is determined pre-operatively based on several discussed criteria.

Spine Fusion Alternatives

image of man experiencing neck pain

Are Recovery Times Faster with Cervical Disc Replacement?

Patients who get cervical disc replacement always benefit from faster recovery times compared to those who have traditional spinal fusion surgeries. This revolutionary procedure enables a quicker return to normal activities, often within just a few weeks post-surgery.

Unlike the prolonged bracing and movement limitations associated with traditional cervical spine surgeries, disc replacement patients typically face fewer restrictions during their recovery period. All of Dr. Johans' patients in Boise have reported being able to resume their daily routines sooner, emphasizing the effectiveness of cervical disc replacement in facilitating a swift return to everyday life.

What is Life Like After Cervical Disc Replacement?

image of doctor testing a patient's neck pain

Does Cervical Disc Replacement Provide Better Pain Relief?

Easing the severe discomfort of pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness felt in your arms or shoulders is the primary goal of cervical disc replacement while maintaining function in the cervical joints. This procedure addresses the immediate irritation caused by degenerative disc diseases or herniation and enhances patients' overall quality of life. Relief of arm symptoms are similar. 

Unlike spinal fusion, which can restrict movement and potentially lead to adjacent segment disease due to increased stress on surrounding vertebrae, disc replacement maintains the natural neck range of motion. This preservation of mobility reduces the likelihood of additional strain and pain on adjacent segments, offering a more comprehensive and long-lasting solution to severe arm and shoulder weakness, numbness, and tingling.

Is It Normal To Feel Pain After Cervical Disc Replacement?

Contact Dr. Johans for Disc Replacement in Boise

If cervical disc replacement is a procedure you're considering, Dr. Johans is here to guide you every step of the way. His commitment is to provide personalized care that aligns with your lifestyle and health objectives.

Reach out directly at (208) 327-5621 or initiate your journey to recovery by completing our patient questionnaire. Together, we'll explore the best treatment options tailored just for you.

Patient Questionnaire

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