As discs lose their water content because of
disease or age, they lose their height and bring the vertebrae closer together.
The consequence is a weakening of the shock absorption properties of the disc
and a narrowing of the openings for the nerves in the sides of the spine. Additionally,
a loss of disc height may cause the formation of bone spurs, which can push
against your spinal cord and/or nerves.
When a disc ruptures in the cervical spine, it puts
pressure on one or more nerve roots (called nerve root compression) or on the
spinal cord, causing pain and other symptoms in the neck and arms. Living with
this pain or weakness and tingling in the arms can be disabling.
Disc degeneration
With the advice of your doctor, you may have tried
other treatments for some time now which did not relieve your pain or
dysfunction. Or perhaps your doctor has determined that irreparable damage
would result without surgery. Your doctor has recommended that you consider the
PRESTIGE® LP Cervical Disc Prosthesis, which provides for motion following
surgery, instead of the more common fusion procedure.
What is involved
in a PRESTIGE® LP Cervical Disc System procedure?
This surgery involves the use of a new medical device,
which is designed to replace the disc which sits between the vertebrae in your
neck. Your disc, which is damaged or diseased, is surgically removed through an
incision made in the front of the neck.
In its place, your surgeon will prepare a space and
insert a PRESTIGE® LP Cervical Disc Prosthesis. The device utilizes a ball and
socket design which is designed to allow for motion to be preserved.
It is not intended as medical advice to any specific person.
If you have any need for personal advice or have any questions regarding your
health, please consult your orthopedic doctors for diagnosis and treatment.
