Cervical Disc Replacement (ACDR)

Overview

Cervical disc replacement — also known as cervical arthroplasty or ACDR — is an advanced procedure that removes a damaged or herniated cervical disc and replaces it with an artificial disc that preserves motion in the neck. Unlike traditional ACDF (fusion), which permanently locks two vertebrae together, disc replacement maintains the natural range of motion at the treated level. This motion preservation reduces stress on adjacent discs and may lower the risk of developing problems at neighboring levels (adjacent segment disease). Dr. Basques is one of New England's leading disc replacement surgeons and offers ACDR for appropriately selected patients from Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and beyond.

How It Works

Through a small incision in the front of the neck, Dr. Basques carefully moves aside the trachea, esophagus, and blood vessels to access the cervical spine. The damaged disc is completely removed, and the space is prepared for the artificial disc. The device — typically consisting of metal endplates with a polyethylene or ceramic core — is inserted into the disc space and secured. The artificial disc allows the treated level to continue moving through its natural range of motion. The procedure takes approximately 60–90 minutes and is performed under general anesthesia.

Benefits

Who Is a Candidate?

Ideal candidates have symptomatic cervical disc herniation, degenerative disc disease, or foraminal stenosis at one or two levels that has not responded to non-surgical treatment. Patients should have preserved motion at the affected level, no significant facet arthritis, and no instability. ACDR is typically offered to patients under 60–65 years old, though age alone is not a strict cutoff. Dr. Basques evaluates each case individually with imaging and clinical examination.

Recovery & Aftercare

Most patients stay in the hospital for one night for observation and go home the next day. A soft collar may be recommended for comfort for the first few days. Light activities can resume within 1–2 weeks. Return to desk work is typically within 2–3 weeks. Most patients resume full activities within 6 weeks. Physical therapy may be recommended to optimize recovery. Dr. Basques provides a detailed recovery protocol.

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