REAL LIVES. REAL DIFFERENCE.
The best people to tell you about cervical disc replacement are those who have experienced it themselves. Use these stories to help you decide if a Medtronic artificial cervical disc may be right for you.
The following stories recount the experiences of individuals who have a Medtronic artificial cervical disc. Medtronic invited them to share their stories candidly. As you read the stories, please bear in mind that the experiences are specific to each particular person.
CHRIS WEIDMAN’S STORY
“This was my 23rd surgery so I'm no stranger to surgery, but the idea of neck surgery scared the crap out of me. In the end though, it ended up being one of the easiest surgeries I’ve ever had, and it was very successful for me.”
Watch Chris Weidman, professional mixed martial artist, share his experience with neck surgery using the Prestige LP™ Cervical Disc, his road back to recovery, and getting back in the octagon.
MARK’S STORY
“To this day, it’s been 12 years and it’s been great. I haven’t worried about my neck at all. I live my life as I would have lived prior to surgery.”
Watch Mark describe his symptoms prior to receiving a two-level cervical arthroplasty procedure using the Prestige LP™ Cervical Disc and share his journey to recovery.
KAT’S STORY
“I get to enjoy my life again. To me, that’s a win.”
Watch Kat describe her symptoms prior to receiving a two-level cervical arthroplasty procedure using the Prestige LP™ Cervical Disc and share her path to recovery.
ANN’S STORY
"I am better now post-surgery, and I think my family is better because of this."
Doug’s Story
“Apart from swimming the English Channel, I can move my arms and legs. I can swing my head around. I can do anything that anybody else here can do because I got this [artificial cervical] disc.”
Doug is one of our ambassadors. Sign up to talk with him about his experience with an artificial cervical disc.
STEPHEN’S STORY
"I can turn my head in every direction - here to the shoulder, going back, coming down - I have no problems with any of it."
Jerilyn’s Story
"By the time of my last follow-up, I had no limits, as far as the surgical site or the Prestige disc were concerned. I was able to do anything I wanted, and without any pain. To me, that was wonderful!"
Nick’s Story
“I had my surgery on Christmas Eve last year, and was back on the mountain February 20 on my snowboard. One year later, I feel amazing, I really do: I feel blessed.”
Rob’s Story
"Am I glad I had spine surgery? Absolutely. It's given me back my life, and allowed me to hit the ground running again. It's like the neck pain was never there."
Stacey’s Story
"Since my artificial disc replacement surgery, I have competed in various events including Ironman™ Switzerland. As for what's next — who knows?"
Medical Disclaimer
This story reflects one person's experience with the Prestige artificial cervical disc. (Download the patient brochure to learn more about this device.) Not every person will receive the same results. Talk to your doctor about your treatment options.
Information on this site should not be used as a substitute for talking with your doctor. Always talk with your doctor about diagnosis and treatment information.