Cervical disc disease is caused by an abnormality in one or multiple intervertebral discs. The intervertebral disc, one of three joints in the spine, serves many functions. Each disc in the cervical spine acts as a shock absorber, separates vertebral bodies and creates passageways for nerve roots exiting the spinal canal.

Like other structures in the spine, cervical discs are vulnerable to age-related changes that include degeneration, protrusion and herniation. The result of cervical disc disease is often neck pain and referred symptoms, such as arm weakness.

The most common spinal surgeries for cervical disc disease are the following (click on the links for more information):

The vast majority of patients with neck pain due to cervical disc disease will improve with conservative therapies; however, if a conservative regimen of six to 12 weeks fails to improve pain and function, surgery is a reasonable option. In addition, surgical intervention is considered immediately for patients who present with progressive weakness in the arms or legs or balance and gait difficulties.

Dr. Karahalios is passionate about treating diseases and conditions of the cervical spine. His research interests in this area have resulted in the development of innovative spinal instrumentation used by spine surgeons throughout the world. He also is a pioneer in the use of cervical artificial discs to treat his own patients with neck and arm pain, and has trained other surgeons to use this alternative to spinal fusion as part of their armamentarium.