Dr. Benavides first in Kearney to perform artificial cervical disc surgery

Patients of Dr. David Benavides, orthopedic surgeon, now can have their damaged cervical discs replaced, rather than fused.

Benavides is using an M6-C cervical disc, developed by Spinal Kinetics/Orthofix, to replace discs in patients suffering from cervical disc degeneration. In this condition, a vertebral disc in the neck has deteriorated or been damaged because of the natural aging process or injury.

The M6-C artificial cervical disc is designed to restore proper spacing between the vertebrae, relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, and preserve motion at the treated level. It has been used widely in the European Union since 2006.

Benavides has used the product to perform artificial cervical disc surgeries on patients who have been experiencing severe symptomatic neck/shoulder/arm pain and headaches. Prior to this, such patients have had just one surgical option: a spinal fusion of two or more vertebrae so they heal into a single, solid bone.

“The new procedure allows patients to maintain some motion closer to the natural posture of the spine. By replacing the impacted disc rather than fusing it, we’re able to minimize the risk of additional stresses of the adjacent segments,” he said.

Benavides is the only surgeon in the Kearney area who performs artificial cervical disc surgery using the M6-C product. He owns Central Nebraska Spinal Surgery Center P.C.

To learn more, call his office at 308-865-2557 for an evaluation and examination. No referral is required.