Cervical Disc Disease Relief with Disc Replacement
Cervical Disc Disease, which involves the seven vertebrae in the neck, can be a very painful and immobilizing condition. The symptoms of degenerative cervical disc disease include pain radiating down the arm and numbness, in addition to neck pain. Many people have difficulty sleeping. Loyola University has been evaluating the Medtronic PRESTIGE ™Artificial Cervical Disc that was approved by the FDA on July 16th, 2007.
The prosthesis (a metal-on-metal artificial disc) simulates the function of a natural cervical disc. It is placed in the neck through an incision at the front of the neck and it is attached to the vertebrae with screws. It allows the patients to move their necks and as a result the patients recover more quickly.
“The new device eliminates the need for transplanted human bone, which is required with spinal fusion,” said Dr. Russ P. Nockels, associate professor and vice chair, Department of Neurological Surgery, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine. “In addition, it permits more motion of the neck. This reduces the likelihood of stress on the surrounding vertebrae, which could lead to further degeneration in adjacent discs.” Dr. Nockels also is the chief of Loyola’s division of neurological spinal disorder and director of the spinal cord injury repair laboratory.
Note: This story has been adapted from a news release issued by Loyola University Health System and Science Daily
Source: Disc Replacement In Neck Relieves Pain, Preserves Mobility
Source: Loyola Pioneer in Artificial Cervical Disc Study
Interesting
Wilcume Rick,
It is wonderful when science actually helps to prevent suffering, and this disc replacement appears to be a better option.
Thanks Rick for stopping by and come again.
Lady Sharon
As a person with two Prestige discs C4-5, C5-6 with a cage fusion at C3-4 I can tell you first hand that the discs work.
I am out of surgery 2 years and I lead a full and active life. I sail, play golf, ride my horses ( regularly), perform acrobatic flying (on occasion) and even do some road racing. I cannot imagine life without my Prestige discs.
Dear Sir Steve,
What wonderful news you share with us. Not only are you feeling better but you are able to participate fully in life it seems. Thou art kind to share your outcome with our readers. We pray you may continue to sail, golf and ride horses now and always. Blessings to you.
Lady Sharon
Scribe of Camelot
Had a prestige disc replacement on Dec 12/09 at C6-7. I am thrilled to be pain free and now working to regain the proper use of my right arm. Very happy to read positive comments like Steve’s. So far I can’t say enough about this amazing procedure.
Sue G
Sorry, previouse comment should be Dec 12/08
Dear Lady Sue G,
To be pain free is a great blessing and you must so appreciate of that freedom. You are so kind to share your experience, so others can determine if this is a procedure that would be viable for them.
Please continue to stay well. Blessings from Camelot.
Lady Sharon
Scribe of Camelot