Cervical Disc Arthroplasty Implant Migration and Dislocation: A Systematic Review of Patterns, Risk Factors, and Surgical Outcomes

Study DesignSystematic Review.ObjectivesCervical disc arthroplasty (CDA) is a motion-preserving alternative to fusion for degenerative cervical disc disease. Implant dislocation, though rare, can lead to severe complications. Despite growing CDA adoption, no systematic synthesis of dislocation risk factors exists, leaving clinicians without evidence-based guidelines. To our knowledge, our study is the first detailed systematic review on CDA-related implant migrations. Our study aims to synthesize literature on CDA-related migration, identify risk factors and evaluate overall management outcomes.MethodsA structured literature review was conducted, identifying 16 relevant studies through PubMed. Data were extracted on study design, patient demographics, prosthesis type, migration direction and timing, risk factors, management approaches, and clinical outcomes.ResultsAmong 40 dislocation cases, anterior migration predominated (70.0%), linked to trauma, hyperlordosis, or poor osseointegration. Posterior migration (17.5%) was associated with polyethylene wear or osteolysis. 5 cases were of unspecified direction (12.5%). 62.5% of the patients underwent revision surgery, with anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) making up 88% of these revision surgeries. Two deaths occurred due to postoperative complications.ConclusionsCareful patient selection, optimal implant sizing, and adherence to surgical technique are critical to minimizing dislocation. Surgeons should avoid CDA in kyphotic patients and consider constrained designs in high-risk cases. Early recognition and prompt surgical intervention lead to favourable outcomes.