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.
Reference: www.brain-spine.com.hk/
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.
