The World's Leading Surgeon for Artificial Disc Replacement in Germany
If you are researching artificial disc replacement in Germany, you are looking for the absolute highest standard of care. You need a surgeon whose skill is proven, whose experience is unmatched, and whose results speak for themselves.
For patients worldwide, that choice is Prof. Dr. Bertagnoli. He is not just a surgeon; he is a pioneer who has dedicated his career to perfecting motion-preserving spine surgery. He successfully treats many of the most complex cases that other surgeons are unable to help, restoring hope and quality of life. The ultimate proof of his skill is that other medical professionals regularly choose him for their own essential spine surgery.

- 10,000+ Successful Procedures
- 36 Spine Device Patents
- 3,000+ Doctors Taught Worldwide
- Founder of the Global Spine Society (ISASS)
Told You Need a Fusion? You Have a Better Choice
For years, spinal fusion was the only option for many people suffering from severe disc problems. While it can help with pain, it comes at a cost: the bones are locked together, which permanently limits your movement and can put extra stress on the discs above and below the fused area. This can lead to more problems and even more surgery down the road.
There is a better way.
Dr. Bertagnoli is a world leader in motion preservation surgery. His entire focus is on fixing the problem without sacrificing your ability to move naturally. Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR) does what fusion cannot: it removes the damaged disc and replaces it with a state-of-the-art implant designed to mimic the natural movement of a healthy disc.
“My goal is simple: to help you get back to the life you love. Keeping your natural motion is a huge part of that.” - Prof. Dr. Bertagnoli
Why Patients Worldwide Choose Dr. Bertagnoli
A True Pioneer
- Trusted to Test New Technology
Leading medical device companies have chosen Dr. Bertagnoli as the chief investigating surgeon for their clinical trials (including for discs like the activL and Mobi-C). This means he is among the first in the world to master the most advanced technology, long before it becomes widely available.
- Hope for the Most Difficult Cases
Many patients come to Dr. Bertagnoli after being told by other surgeons that their condition is too complex to fix. He is world-renowned for his ability to successfully take on these tough cases, offering life-changing results where others could not.
A Leader in His Field
- He Invents Better Surgical Tools
With 36 patents for spinal devices, Dr. Bertagnoli has personally developed tools and implants to make surgery safer, more precise, and more effective. You benefit directly from his innovation.
- He Wrote the Book on Modern Spine Surgery
Top surgeons around the world learn advanced techniques from his textbook (co-authored), "Motion Preservation Surgery of the Spine." It is considered a cornerstone of modern spine education.
- He Advises World-Class Hospitals
Prestigious institutions like the Mayo Clinic and Cedars-Sinai have sought his expert consultation, a clear sign of his standing in the global medical community.
The Doctor Who Teaches Other Doctors
- A Teacher to Thousands of Surgeons
Dr. Bertagnoli has personally trained over 3,000 surgeons from more than 55 countries, sharing the techniques he has perfected. When you choose Dr. Bertagnoli, you are choosing the master surgeon that other top doctors learn from.
As Seen On Seattle Science TV
Watch Prof. Dr. Bertagnoli discuss advanced spine treatments with other leading medical experts.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HOn77WFBa_8
Real Stories from People Who Got Their Lives Back
Featured Story: A Doctor and His Wife Get Relief
“He is, without a doubt, one of the best ADR surgeons in the world.”
An Orthodontist from the US was suffering after a failed surgery. Dr. Bertagnoli fixed the problem and also performed a successful 4-level disc replacement on his wife. Both are now pain-free.
Video Stories
Watch Patients Share Their Experience
An ER Doctor from the US talks about his surgery
The Paul Rizzo Story: A patient who survived a parachute failure
Examples of Complex Cases
Doug DeCinces | Fixing a 5-Level Disc Problem
Repairing a "Hangman's Fracture"
Correcting a Failed Fusion Surgery
The Right Disc for You, Not a "One-Size-Fits-All" Approach
Your spine is unique, and your treatment should be too. Some clinics may only offer a few types of artificial discs, trying to make your problem fit their limited solutions. Dr. Bertagnoli believes this is the wrong way to approach patient care.
He has deep expertise with over 31 different models of artificial discs. This extensive range allows him to do something crucial: select the one single device that is perfectly matched to your anatomy, your specific condition, and your lifestyle goals.
He chooses only the safest, most soundly-engineered devices with a long history of proven success. This commitment to quality and personalization means you aren't just getting an artificial disc—you are getting the right artificial disc for a successful, long-lasting result.
Your Simple and Stress-Free Trip to Germany
The thought of traveling to another country for surgery can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Our dedicated patient care team specializes in helping international patients. From your first question to your flight home, we are with you at every step, making sure your entire experience is smooth, comfortable, and focused on your recovery.
Simple 4-Step Path
Your Free Online Case Review
It all starts from the comfort of your home. You will send us your MRI or CT scans and medical history through a secure online portal. Our team will organize your information for Dr. Bertagnoli's personal review.
Receive Your Personal Treatment Plan
After carefully studying your case, Dr. Bertagnoli will determine if you are a candidate for surgery and create a detailed, personalized treatment plan. Our team will share this with you and schedule a call to discuss the recommendations and answer all of your questions.
Coordinated Travel and World-Class Treatment
Once you decide to proceed, we help you with everything. We assist with scheduling your surgery, provide letters for medical visas, and recommend nearby hotels that our patients love. When you arrive in Germany, you will be cared for by a world-class medical team in a state-of-the-art facility.
Return Home Healthy with Full Support
After your successful surgery and recovery time in the clinic, you will be ready to fly home. You will leave with a comprehensive set of aftercare instructions and exercises. Our team remains available to you for follow-up questions as you continue to heal and get back to the life you love.
Clear and Honest Information About Costs and Insurance
We believe in complete transparency with no surprises. We are a private clinic, which means payment for your care is made directly to us. While we do not directly bill international insurance companies, our team provides you with a complete and detailed invoice and all the necessary medical documentation. You can use this to submit a claim to your insurance provider for reimbursement. Many of our patients have had success with this process. You will also find that the total cost of receiving care from one of the world's top surgeons in Germany is often significantly lower than the cost of a similar procedure in the United States.
Ready to Take the Next Step? It's Time to Leave Your Spine Pain Behind
You have seen the technology, the expertise, and the results. You don't have to plan a future around pain and limited movement. A life where you can move freely and comfortably is possible, and the first step is easier than you think.
Let our team and one of the world's best spine surgeons review your case. This is a no-obligation opportunity to get a world-class opinion on your condition and find out what your options truly are.
Contact Our Team
Our dedicated patient coordinators are ready to help you begin your journey. They can answer your initial questions and guide you on how to submit your medical files for review by Dr. Bertagnoli.
“We would only recommend this amazing team to anyone with neck or back issues. We are forever grateful.” - Dr. Timothy and Mrs. Mara Adams, Patients
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR)?
Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR) is a surgical procedure in which a damaged or degenerated spinal disc is removed and replaced with a man-made, artificial implant. This procedure is a modern alternative to spinal fusion, which permanently joins two or more vertebrae together.
- What is the main advantage of Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR) over spinal fusion?
The main advantage is motion. An artificial disc is designed to move like a natural, healthy disc, allowing you to bend and twist. Spinal fusion locks the bones together permanently, which eliminates movement at that level and can put stress on the surrounding discs. ADR aims to restore your motion, not take it away.
- How do I know if I am a good candidate for this surgery?
The best way to find out is through a personal case review. After you send us your MRI or CT scans, Prof. Dr. Bertagnoli will personally study them to determine if you are a candidate and what type of procedure would give you the best result. This review is free of charge.
- Why should I travel to Germany for Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR)?
Patients travel to Germany to get access to a level of expertise that may not be available elsewhere. Prof. Dr. Bertagnoli is a global pioneer in this field with over 10,000 procedures performed. Additionally, the cost of receiving care from a world-leading surgeon in Germany is often significantly lower than in countries like the United States.
- How long will I need to stay in Germany?
While every case is unique, most international patients stay in the area for approximately two weeks. This includes pre-operative consultations, your hospital stay after the surgery, and your initial recovery period before you are cleared to safely fly home. Our team will provide you with a specific timeline based on your treatment plan.
- How long is the recovery from Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR)?
Recovery is much faster than with fusion. Most patients are up and walking within a day of the surgery. You will be given a set of simple exercises to do, and activities like driving are often possible within a few weeks. The goal is a steady return to your normal, active life.