Prodisc-C Nova
Fig 1ac One-step keel preparation with the prodisc-C nova precision cutting system. 
Fig 2 Prodisc-C nova: titanium alloy endplates to enhance MRI compatibility. One of the most common causes for pain in the cervical spine is referred to as symptomatic cervical disc disease. It is basically defined as neck or arm (radicular) pain and/or a functional/neurological deficit with at least one of the following conditions confirmed by imaging (CT, MRI, or x-ray):
- Herniated nucleus pulposus
- Spondylosis (defined by the presence of osteophytes)
- Loss of disc height
Historically, many of these patients are treated with anterior cervical discectomy and fusion. Cervical total disc replacement provides spine surgeons with a proven alternative to significantly reduce pain while restoring biomechanical stability, disc height and providing the potential for motion at the affected vertebral segment.
The new prodisc-C nova is based on the same ball-and-socket design as prodisc-C, which has been successful in clinical use for many years. The ball-and-socket articulation permits a physiological range of motion and the restoration of the anatomical balance. The fixed center of rotation resists shear forces and enables controlled motion.
Prodisc-C nova maintains many of the features of Prodisc-C, such as excellent primary fixation (keels), a simple and reproducible surgical technique as well as the proven CoCrMo/UHMWPE articulation, while offering these additional features:
- Enhanced MRI compatibility
- Improved multilevel capability
- Anatomical footprint design
- One-step keel preparation
For improved MRI, the endplates are made of titanium alloy, reducing the amount of artifacts around the implant. The reduced keel size and its tripod arrangement facilitate a multilevel application. The endplates have a trapezoidal shape for optimal fit and coverage of the vertebral endplates.
The surgical technique of the prodisc-C nova is simple and consists of three main steps:
- Trial
- Keel preparation
- Implant insertion
The prodisc-C nova precision cutting system performs all three keel cuts in one single step within a few seconds using reciprocating saw blades that are guided by the trial implant.
A 36-year-old man with a previous history of mild chronic neck pain developed signs and symptoms of myelopathy in four limbs after a manipulation. The MRI showed an important compressing median herniated
disc at C5/C6.
Case provided by Bonny Noens, Gent, Belgium
Fig 1ab a Preoperative x-ray. b Postoperative x-ray shows prodisc-C nova single level. The surgical procedure and postoperative recovery were uneventful. Hazards and labeling
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