Hybrid Multi-level fusion and artificial disc replacement c-spin

[teg]

Hey everyone,

I just read an article about a local spine surgeon who proclaims the he is the first one to perform a hybrid procedure on the c-spine. He said that this procedure has been performed in Europe, but he is the first spine surgeon in the U.S. to perform a hybrid multi-level cervical artificial disc with fusion. He also said that the procedure is the first viable treatment option to resolve a combination of degenerative disc disease and herniated discs, with normal discs interspersed.

The procedure was performed on 16 Jan 2013 on the following levels:
C3-4: Bryan disc
C4-5: Healthy disc
c5-6: Fused due to severely unstable degenerated disc
c6-7: Bryan disc due to herniated disc

I am posting this because I thought that the hybrid procedure was already being performed in the U.S. can anyone clear this up for me? Thanks in advance.

Thelma