Cervical Disc Replacement

Cervical disc replacement (CDR) is covered for skeletally mature Medicare beneficiaries with single-level C3–C7 cervical degenerative disc disease or herniation who have corresponding imaging-confirmed nerve root or cord compression and who have failed ≥6 weeks of conservative care (or have rapidly progressive/severe symptoms requiring urgent intervention); the implanted device must be FDA-approved for the intended level(s). Two-level contiguous CDR is permitted only when there is objective evidence at both contiguous levels and the device has FDA approval for two-level use. Numerous absolute contraindications and investigational exclusions apply (e.g., BMI >40, active infection, osteoporosis, prior fusion at the treated level, non-contiguous multi-level procedures), and procedures must be performed by a licensed physician with documented training and proficiency in cervical spine surgery.

"The prosthetic cervical disc device is FDA-approved for the indicated use."