Update on design and biomechanics of cervical disc arthroplasty

Abstract

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) has been considered the mainstay of care for cervical spondylosis despite its association with decreased spinal mobility, altered kinematics, and risk of adjacent segment disease. Cervical disc arthroplasty (CDA) has recently emerged as a potential alternative that allows for preservation of motion and restoration of physiologic load distribution at both the index and adjacent levels. The growing interest and strong clinical evidence supporting the use of CDA has led to several changes in implant design. This review aims to discuss the implementation of CDA as an alternative to ACDF as well as provide an update on advancements in implant design and their influence of spinal biomechanics.