Referring Physicians: Cervical Disc Replacement Surgery at Rush

Rush cervical disc replacement surgery specialists ensure patients receive expert evaluation and care tailored to their specific spinal conditions. They have advanced training and experience needed to accurately diagnose the severity and underlying causes of cervical disc problems, such as degenerative disc disease or herniation. Rush neurosurgeons participated in the initial clinical trials for this procedure and have been performing cervical disc replacement surgery for over 25 years. This experience allows them to determine when disc replacement will be a more appropriate treatment option than other surgical or nonsurgical treatments, leading to excellent outcomes for patients.

Cervical disc replacement requires a high level of surgical skill and familiarity with the latest techniques and implant technology. Our specialists regularly perform this surgery and stay current with emerging evidence and best practices. Their focused experience also allows them to manage complex cases or anatomical challenges that may be beyond the scope of general orthopedists or neurosurgeons.

Rush spine surgeons work with teams from multiple specialties that provide coordinated treatment plans, including presurgical education, physical therapy and long-term follow-up. This high level of care enhances the overall patient experience and focuses on improving quality of life through symptom relief, including reduced pain and restored mobility. At 10 years post-surgery, patients who receive cervical disc replacement are less likely to need additional surgery than those who undergo cervical fusion surgery.

Who Are Ideal Candidates for Cervical Disc Replacement Surgery at Rush?

Good candidates for cervical disc replacement surgery include patients with one- or two-level disc disease whose conservative treatment options have not been effective. They have little to no severe spinal instability or deformity, no infections or autoimmune diseases and no previous cervical fusion at the same or adjacent disc level. They must also have good bone quality. These criteria are more important than age in determining when cervical disc replacement will be right for a patient.

Patients seeking a second opinion on diagnosis or treatment options will also find expert evaluation and guidance at Rush. A second opinion can provide patients with alternatives or help them feel confident in making decisions about care for their spinal conditions.

Why Refer Patients Here for Cervical Disc Replacement Surgery?

Highly experienced spine surgeons: Rush spine surgeons were among the first in Chicago to perform cervical disc replacement surgery and draw on over two decades of experience using the procedure. They also participate in clinical trials for cervical disc replacement surgery that bring innovation to the field.
Options beyond spinal fusion: Rush spine surgeons focus on offering motion-sparing alternatives to spinal fusion whenever appropriate. They treat thousands of patients annually for herniated discs, degenerative disc disease and other conditions. This level of experience allows them to determine which procedures and treatments can reduce symptoms for many years post-surgery with a high likelihood of preserving mobility. Success rates for patients who have cervical disc replacement surgery are very high.
Nationally ranked programs: U.S. News & World Report includes Rush University Medical Center on its Best Hospitals Honor Roll and ranks our orthopedics and neurology and neurosurgery programs among the nation's best.

What Is the Process for Referring a Patient?

To refer a patient to Rush for cervical disc replacement evaluation and surgery, call our Provider Express Line at (312) 947-4725. You can also find more information and an online provider referral form on our Refer or Transfer a Patient page.

All patients are rapidly screened after requesting an appointment. Patients are given the earliest appointment available with priority based on the acuity of their spinal issue. Our physicians communicate all test results, diagnoses and treatment plans promptly via office notes.