Frequently Asked Questions

How soon are patients typically able to return to normal activities after cervical disc surgery?

	Dr. Richard Fessler Chicago, IL Depending upon patient variability, somewhere between 10 days and 3 to 4 weeks.
	Dr. Todd Lanman Los Angeles, CA After artificial disc surgery, patients return to normal activities at about eight weeks postoperatively. In the fusion patients it is usually 12 weeks or longer depending on how well the bone is healing, but the artificial disc patients are returning to their normal exercise activities at eight weeks after the operation.
	Dr. Todd Bonvallet Chattanooga, TN I allow patients approximately 2 weeks before they go back to their normal activities.
	Dr. Robert Pashman Los Angeles, CA In my clinical experience, after artificial cervical disc replacement surgery, a patient usually can return to limited activity within a week of having surgery. Normal activities are typically resumed within a month, and all restrictions are usually lifted at three months postoperatively.
	Dr. Paul Broadstone Chattanooga, TN It depends totally on what is considered "normal." Light work activities at 2-4 weeks; fully un-restricted activities at 12 weeks.
	Dr. Vincent Traynelis Iowa City, IA This depends on a number of factors, including the condition of the patient before surgery.
	Dr. Jeffrey Carlson Newport News, VA Most patients return to their regular activities within 7-10 days. Patients generally feel well enough to do most day-to-day activities within just a few days of surgery, but mild neck discomfort may limit their ability to turn their head while driving for about 7-10 days. It is important to avoid heavy lifting, repetitive bending and high impact exercise or athletic activity for a certain amount of time after surgery.
	Dr. Praveen Mummaneni San Francisco, CA After the incision heals, about 2-3 weeks.

The commentary above recounts the experiences of these physicians. Medtronic invited them to share their stories candidly. Keep in mind that results vary; not every patient's response is the same. The degree of motion maintained may vary with each individual patient. Talk with your doctor to learn more about any products that are mentioned above.

It is important that you discuss the potential risks, complications and benefits of spinal surgery with your doctor prior to receiving treatment, and that you rely on your doctor's judgment. Only your doctor can determine whether you are a suitable candidate for this treatment.