Rick Sasso, MD

In previous blogs, I have referenced the exciting research that was summarized in a recent article on cervical artificial discs.  Again, this is an alternative spine surgery procedure to spinal fusion as a treatment for degenerative disc disease.  This information was also presented at the Back Talk physician symposium sponsored by Indiana Spine Group.

Spinal fusion, which is considered the “gold standard” spine surgical treatment for degenerative disc disease has a few disadvantages.  One key disadvantage is the degenerative of the adjacent cervical discs over time.  The other is the complications that are associated with the site of the bone graft used in the spinal fusion; the iliac crest bone (hip bone). 

It is projected, that as a result of motion preservation with the cervical artificial discs that this will prevent or delay adjacent disc degeneration.  These initial results are exciting, and as studies are completed and results reported, I will continue to provide updates on my blog.