Cervical disc replacement surgery has emerged as a highly effective treatment for individuals suffering from degenerative disc diseases and other spinal conditions that lead to neck pain and reduced mobility. Dr. Tim Johans, a respected neurosurgeon based in Boise, often discusses the potential outcomes of this procedure with his patients, emphasizing the importance of understanding the factors that contribute to its success.
This blog explores the long-term success rates of cervical disc replacements, examining how various elements impact outcomes and what patients should expect regarding arm pain, numbness or weakness reduction, and neck mobility post-surgery.
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.
What Impacts the Long-Term Success Rates of Cervical Disc Replacements?
Several factors play a crucial role in determining the long-term success of cervical disc replacement. Other neck problems elsewhere, not addressed at the time of surgery, age, overall health, and lifestyle habits, including smoking and physical activity levels, significantly influence recovery and outcomes. Loss of range of motion from fusion is less prevalent after disc replacement. Modern cervical disc replacements utilize durable materials like titanium and medical-grade plastics, contributing to their longevity and effective functioning.
Post-operative care is another critical consideration of a successful outcome. A comprehensive care plan (which Dr. Johans will go over during post-op), including physical therapy, lifestyle adjustments to mitigate neck strain, and regular follow-up appointments, is essential. Furthermore, Dr. Johans' adoption of advanced surgical techniques and imaging technologies ensures more precise implant placements, enhancing the surgery's success rates.
What Are the Success Rates for Pain, Numbness, or Weakness Reduction After Cervical Disc Replacement?
The main goal of cervical disc replacement is to alleviate pressure off the nerve root and spinal cord, which is the source of the pain, weakness, numbness, and tingling in patients arms and shoulders. Approximately 80-90% of patients report a significant decrease in arm pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms and shoulders following the procedure. It is not a 100% guarantee that cervical disc replacement will completely cure neck pain, but it should reduce and get rid of pain, numbness, or tingling you feel in your arms or shoulders.
When compared to traditional spinal surgeries, cervical disc replacements generally show lower degeneration over time at other levels in the neck. Moreover, the advantages of this pain reduction are not just temporary; long-term research shows that these benefits continue far into the future. On average, 25% of patients undergoing fusion surgery will require additional operations on adjacent vertebrae in the following years.
The overall success rate is fabulous. Patients should expect complete or near complete relief of arm pain, numbness, and a full return of strength. Dr. Johans recommends not to wait too long to seek medical attention to ensure a full recovery. Cervical disc replacement doesn't hurt much, and the risks may seem scary but are very rare.
It&'s important to note that individual surgical outcomes may vary based on specific factors such as the condition being treated, the patient's overall health, and their commitment to adhering to post-surgery rehabilitation protocols. Dr. Johans stresses the importance of a personalized approach to surgery and recovery to maximize the benefits of cervical disc replacement.
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Do Cervical Disc Replacements Maintain Neck Mobility Successfully Over Time?
One of the key advantages of cervical disc replacement over traditional spinal fusion surgeries is the preservation of neck mobility. Designed to mimic the natural movement of a healthy disc, this procedure allows most patients to retain or even improve their range of motion. Research supports that improved neck mobility is maintained for 10 years or more post-surgery, with a relatively low risk of adjacent segment disease. This condition, that is more common in traditional spinal fusion surgeries, refers to the degeneration of discs adjacent to the fusion site.
Dr. Johans highlights the significance of cervical disc replacement as a means to restore not only mobility but also quality of life for his patients. By carefully reviewing all the options with patients and suggesting only the best possible procedure, Dr. Johans has found profound success. Employing the latest in surgical advancements, he ensures that patients in Boise and the surrounding areas have access to the most effective treatments available for cervical conditions or injuries causing pressure to the nerve root and spinal cord, which causes pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms and shoulders.
Cervical disc replacement offers a proven solution for patients suffering from severe arm or shoulder pain, numbness, weakness, and mobility issues. With high success rates in pain reduction and the preservation of neck mobility, it represents a significant advancement in spinal surgery. Dr. Johans remains dedicated to providing his patients with access to this state-of-the-art treatment, supporting them through recovery to achieve the best possible outcomes.
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 start your journey to recovery by completing our patient questionnaire. Together, we'll explore the best treatment options for you and your lifestyle.
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