Disc Replacement

If you struggle with back, neck, or nerve pain because of a damaged spinal disc, help is within reach. With offices in Beverly Hills and the Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, Robert H. Cho, MD, offers disc replacement to restore your spine’s structure and ease pain. Schedule an appointment with orthopedic surgeon Robert Cho, MD, by calling the office or booking online today to learn more about this procedure. 

What is disc replacement?

Disc replacement with Dr. Cho is a minimally invasive procedure that replaces a damaged spinal disc. He uses the latest procedures, such as prodisc® C anterior cervical total disc replacement, to remove an old disc and replace it with a new artificial disc. 

The spine consists of bones (vertebrae) stacked on top of each other with discs between them that act as cushions. This allows your spinal vertebrae to move and rotate without the bones rubbing against each other.

Disc replacement may be an alternative to spinal fusion surgery. If you struggle with symptoms of a damaged spinal disc, see Dr. Cho as soon as possible.

Which symptoms may indicate spinal disc damage?

The following symptoms may indicate disc damage and a need for treatment:

• Back pain
• Neck pain
• Sciatica discomfort
• Radiating pain
• Numbness
• Tingling
• Muscle weakness
• Pain near your shoulder blades

Pain from a disc herniation may worsen when you bend or turn in certain ways.

Am I a candidate for disc replacement surgery?

Dr. Cho reviews your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, and goals to help determine if disc replacement is right for you. He completes a physical exam and may order:

• X-rays
• CT scan
• MRI
• Discography
• Blood tests

If your disc damage is severe or conservative treatments haven’t eased your neck or back discomfort, you might be a candidate for disc replacement surgery. 

How can I prepare for disc replacement surgery?

Dr. Cho lets you know how to prepare for disc replacement. It’s important to stop smoking and tell him about any medications you’re taking. 

You might need to stop taking certain medicines before your scheduled procedure and avoid food and drink the morning of surgery. Make arrangements for someone to drive you home afterward and plan to stay in the hospital for a few days.

What can I expect during disc replacement?

You’ll be given anesthesia to help you fall asleep before you undergo disc replacement. Dr. Cho makes a tiny incision to remove the damaged disc and replaces it with a new one. He closes the incision and takes you to a recovery area.

What happens after disc replacement?

After disc replacement surgery, you’ll stay in the hospital for several days to recover. Take any medications as directed when you head home and follow your other post-surgical instructions. This may eventually include gentle exercises. 

Total recovery might take a few weeks or months. Call Dr. Cho anytime with questions during the healing process.

Schedule an appointment with Robert H. Cho, MD, to determine if you're a candidate for disc replacement by calling the office or booking a visit online today.