Private Cervical Fusion vs Private Cervical Disc Replacement

Private Cervical Fusion vs Private Cervical Disc Replacement

Private cervical spinal fusion surgery and private cervical disc replacement surgery can be done in Canada or the US.  There are a lot more options if you go to the US, where the pricing will be comparable.  What is the difference between a cervical spinal fusion and cervical spinal disc replacement?  Let’s find out what each surgery encompasses and how they differ.  

What is a Cervical Spinal Fusion?

Cervical spinal fusion is the surgery that uses artificial bone material and other substances so they heal into a single solid bone. This, over time, can improve the stability of the spine and eliminate pain, however, will limit the range of motion for that joint.

What is a Cervical Spinal Disc Replacement?

A cervical disc replacement differs in that the surgeon inserts an artificial disc in the disc space.  Some patients are not good candidates for cervical disc replacement if they have a history of cancer, degeneration, bone infections, scoliosis, or osteoporosis.

Disc Replacement vs Fusion Surgery

Cervical disc replacement surgery is a fairly new surgery so there is not a lot of information out there, especially for long-term success rate and outcomes.  What is known is that it allows for greater movement and mobility than a fusion.  It acts as a real disc and is designed to function as if it was a natural disc whereas cervical fusion welds bones together not allowing for movement in that specific area.

Spinal fusion is known to create more stress on the vertebrae above and below the artificial disc.  With a disc replacement, the movement is naturally still there, which could reduce the risk for further disc degeneration in the future.

Spinal disc replacement surgery also has a much quicker recovery time.  Because you do not need to wait for the bones to completely fuse together, which can take several months, even up to 18 months, most people resume their normal activities within a 4-6 week time frame.  

We have options with credible and experienced surgeons that can do both of these procedures.  If you are interested in a private cervical spine surgery, give us a call to set up a consultation to see which procedure would be right for you.  You can reach us at 877-344-3544 or info@healthvantis.com.