Mechanical protection
The vertebral body and vertebral arch encase the spinal cord to protection. When connected ontop of each other anatomically , they form the spinal column. The spinal cord and the nerve exits are located within the spinal canal.

Skock absorbing and mobility
The intervertebral discs are located between the vertebral bodies. These discs cushion shock forces gently , acting as “ shock absorber ”. The discs in conjunction with the vertebral joints facilitate motion by turning , stretching and bending of the neck.

Degenerative changes of the spine

The treatment concept with Total Artificial Disc Replacement ( TADR )

The treatment goal of the TADR , is to restore the normaldynamic function of the spine and to significantly reduce pain.

This achieved through there –establishment of the disc height , as maintained by the prosthesis. The increase in height and the elimination of the prolapse “ open ” constricted nerve paths and the vertebral joints are restored to their physiological position.

Prior to the development of artificial discs the only surgical option was a customary fusion , in which adjacent vertebral bodies are “ fused together ” permanently using implants , bone chips and/ or cages .
The goal of the intervertebral disc prosthesis is to maintain mobility at the affected intervertebral disc and to reduce the extra loading on the adjacent intervertebral discs.

The Prodisc C Prosthesis

The Prodisc C intervertebral discs prosthesis consists of two cobalt chromium molybdenum plates with a titanium coating that allows for bony ingrowth of the prosthesis. A plastic core ( polyethylene ) located between the plates guarantees the mobility in the segment ( ball and socket joint principle ) . All of these materials are clinically proven to be tolerated very well by the bodies. This design prevents overloading of the adjacent intervertebral discs , as can occur after traditional spinal fusion.

Different sizes of the individual components are available to the surgeon , so that he can select the correct size of prosthesis that fits best with your anatomy.

Anchorage of the prosthesis

To achieve short term primary stability directly after the opration , the Prodisc- C intervertebral prosthesis is equipped with a keel which is anchored directly on the vertebral body. The necessary stability is thus guaranteed immediately upon implantation .
In addition , the entired surface is coated with a highly porous pure titanium layer which facilitates the growth of bone on the metal components due to its extremely rough and porous surface.

Course of the operation

A longitudinak section of the skin of approximately 2 - 4 cm.first exposes the cervical spine. The intervertebral disc is then removed and the intervertebral disc space is expanded to about 5 – 7 cm using special instruments to decompress the nerve root and to create space for the prosthesis.

Following measurement of the appropriate size and precise preparation of the implant area , the implant is inserted centrally under
X - ray control.

What happens after the operation ?

You will remain in the hospital after the operation . Since the prosthesis is immediately stable under movement and pressure , you may begin ambulating one day after the operation.If necessary , as advised by your surgeon , you may be asked to wear a cervical collarfor a few weeks after the operation to support your spine.

You will undergo special post – operative treatment ( physiotherapy , mobilization , muscle build –up , etc. ) After some months, significant ingrowth of the prosthesis in to the bone has occurred. This can be verified by X ray during a follow- up examination.Follow –up examinations are performed at regular intervals to guarantee the greatest possible safety and care in this surgical method.

For occupational and sporting activities ,please discuss directly with your physician.