Overview
- The M6‑C artificial cervical disc was withdrawn by manufacturer Orthofix in February 2025 after reports linked the device to osteolysis, a condition that destroys bone tissue.
- In January 2026 the UK regulator found the manufacturer delayed warning clinicians and advised surgeons to inform implanted patients and arrange imaging and follow‑up.
- Patient accounts include a 2019 recipient who developed osteolysis and a large neck abscess that may need further discs removed and a metal rod inserted, illustrating the serious clinical risks of revision surgery.
- Lawyers have been contacted by multiple affected patients and say thousands could be at risk, creating a likely demand for technically complex, high‑risk spinal operations across the health system.
- Hospitals have been asked to identify and recall patients for X‑rays or CT scans, clinicians are urged to report problems via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme, and legal claims against Orthofix are being explored.