I am slated to have a cervical disc arthroplasty to relieve my severe hand pain. I have a friend who has very similar issues to my own and he had a fusion. What is the benefit of having a cervical disc arthroplasty versus a fusion? Isn’t the fusion the more tried and true method?

While you are correct that the cervical disc arthroplasty is the newer method, evidence is suggesting that it has very similar outcomes to the fusion technique. Studies further suggest that because it allows for continued movement at that segment, over time there is less wear and tear at the adjacent vertebral segments which reduces the likelihood of further surgery, a strong critique of the fusion surgery.

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