Anterior Cervical Discectomy with Disc Replacement (ACDR)

Medically reviewed by Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD, FAANS, FACS — dual board-certified spine surgeon & neurosurgeon. Last reviewed October 2026.

This procedure removes a damaged neck disc — just like an ACDF — but instead of fusing the level, it replaces the disc with an artificial one that preserves natural motion. For suitable candidates, it relieves nerve pressure while keeping the neck moving the way it should.

Book a Consultation — (602) 566-9500

How Cervical Disc Replacement Works

Procedure Overview

Like an ACDF, this procedure removes a damaged or herniated disc from the front of the neck to decompress the nerve or spinal cord. But instead of fusing the two vertebrae, the disc is replaced with an artificial disc that preserves natural motion at that level. For the right patient, preserving motion may reduce extra stress on the discs above and below over time.

Conditions We Treat

Am I a Candidate?

Cervical disc replacement is considered for patients with a herniated or degenerated neck disc causing arm symptoms who have healthy facet joints and good alignment at that level — the features that make motion preservation appropriate. Not everyone is a candidate; a thorough evaluation determines whether disc replacement or ACDF is the better fit, and Dr. Greenwald performs both.

Book a Consultation — (602) 566-9500

Benefits & Risks

Expected Outcomes

For well-selected patients, cervical disc replacement relieves arm symptoms comparably to ACDF while preserving motion, and modern artificial discs are engineered for long-term durability. The key is candidacy — which is why a careful evaluation by a surgeon who performs both procedures matters. We set clear, individualized expectations.

Life Beyond the Pain

How It's Performed

Through the same muscle-sparing incision at the front of the neck, the damaged disc and any bone spurs compressing the nerves are removed. In place of the disc, a precisely sized artificial disc is implanted, restoring height and alignment while allowing the segment to bend and rotate naturally. No plate or fusion is needed.

Recovery & Return to Activity

Because there's no fusion to heal, recovery can be slightly quicker than ACDF for suitable patients. Your timeline depends on your anatomy and overall health.

Insurance, Out-of-Network & Cost

Cost and coverage shouldn't stand between you and relief. Desert Spine and Pain welcomes out-of-network patients and will walk you through what your evaluation and treatment are likely to involve before anything is scheduled — so there are no surprises. We'll help you understand your benefits and options, whether you're using insurance, paying out-of-pocket, or being treated under a personal-injury claim.

Proudly Serving the Greater Phoenix, Arizona Area

Why Choose Our Spine Specialists in Phoenix

Choosing the right spine specialist in Phoenix matters. At Desert Spine and Pain, your care is led by Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD, FAANS, FACS — a physician who is both a board-certified spine surgeon and a neurosurgeon. That dual expertise is rare, and it means one expert can guide you across the full spectrum of care — from a simple injection to complex surgery — and recommend what is genuinely best for you, whether you need a spine doctor for conservative care or a surgeon when surgery is truly the answer.

Cervical Disc Replacement: Frequently Asked Questions