Cervical Disc Replacement in Indiana
Cervical disc replacement treats a damaged disc in the neck while preserving motion at that level — an established alternative to fusion (ACDF) for appropriately selected patients, supported by long-term clinical trial data. Because not every spine surgeon offers it, patients come to Fort Wayne from across Indiana to find out whether they're candidates.
Disc replacement vs. fusion — the honest comparison
Both operations remove the damaged disc and decompress the nerves or spinal cord through the same small anterior approach. Fusion (ACDF) then locks the level; replacement preserves its motion. Preserved motion may reduce stress on neighboring levels over time, and trial data in selected patients supports replacement as at least equivalent to fusion for the right indications. But candidacy is real: significant facet-joint arthritis, instability, poor bone quality, or certain deformities favor fusion. The right answer comes from your imaging, not from a preference for one technology.
Who tends to be a candidate
Patients with arm pain or neurologic symptoms from one- or two-level cervical disc herniation or degeneration, with preserved facet joints and alignment, who have not responded to structured nonsurgical care. Age and bone quality matter and are assessed as part of the workup. See cervical radiculopathy.
Already told you need a fusion?
For some patients told they need an ACDF, disc replacement is a reasonable alternative — and for others, fusion genuinely is the better operation. A second-opinion visit reviews your MRI and tells you which side of that line you're on, plainly.
Coming from out of town
Imaging can be sent ahead; consultations are structured so traveling patients get a decisive answer in one visit. The procedure is typically outpatient or a single-night stay. See areas we serve.
Related reading: Alternatives to spinal fusion · Endoscopic spine surgery in Indiana · Request a second opinion
Frequently asked questions
Who offers cervical disc replacement in Indiana?
A limited number of fellowship-trained spine surgeons, including Dr. Marc Greenberg in Fort Wayne, where motion-preserving surgery is a practice focus.
Is disc replacement better than ACDF?
Not universally — in selected patients, long-term trials support it as an alternative that preserves motion; in others (facet arthritis, instability, poor bone quality), fusion is the better operation.
Does insurance cover cervical disc replacement?
Most commercial plans and Medicare cover one- and two-level cervical disc replacement when criteria are met; requirements are verified for every patient before scheduling.
How long is recovery?
Most patients go home the same day or next morning; many return to desk work within a few weeks, individualized to your case and occupation.
Can I get an opinion without traveling first?
Records and imaging can be reviewed on arrival — call (260) 484-1400 and imaging transfer can be arranged before your visit.