What is a cervical disc replacement with fusion?

Fusion: Replacement these days often refers to an artificial disk. As you are using the term, the disk is removed and replaced with a spacer (bone, metal, plastic, bone substitute). The plate and screws provide additional stability. The bones connected by the spacer and plate grow together (ideally) to form a single bone.

Common procedure: An anterior cervical discectomy and fusion with instrumentation is a common procedure to address cervical disc herniations, degenerative spondylosis and occasional to treat instability from trauma. A fusion will eliminate the motion at the involved joint segments. Most patients do well. For very good information and videos, check out spine-health.Com.

Spinal reconstructio: An anterior cervical disc replacement usually refers to an artificial disc but reconstruction has motion preserving options (artificial disc) and motion taking options. Consultation with an expert on both will answer which is best for a specific person.

Not FDA approved: Cervical disc replacement on one level and a fusion on another level during the same surgery is not FDA approved and considered experimental. For more information, visit www.eSpine.com