Details.
A minimally invasive surgical procedure that removes a damaged or herniated disk from the cervical spine and fuses the adjacent vertebrae for stability. It may be recommended for persistent neck pain, arm pain, numbness, or weakness caused by cervical nerve compression. The procedure generally includes an anterior neck incision, disk removal, insertion of a bone graft or synthetic material, and possible stabilization with metal plates or screws. Recovery may include a brief hospital stay, prescribed pain medication, a neck brace or collar, physical therapy beginning a few weeks after surgery, and follow-up visits.