Disc Replacement

Who is a Candidate for Disc Replacement?

Disc replacement is not suitable for everyone with back or neck pain. Ideal candidates typically include individuals who:

• Have significant pain and disability due to a damaged or degenerated disc.
• Have not found adequate relief with non-surgical treatments.
• Have instability or deformity in the spine.
• Do not have significant arthritis or other advanced degenerative changes at the affected level.
• Are generally in good health.

A thorough evaluation by our spine specialists at Ortho 1 Medical Group is essential to determine if disc replacement is the right option for you.

Types of Disc Replacement

• Cervical Disc Replacement: This procedure involves replacing a damaged disc in the neck. It is often considered for patients with herniated discs or degenerative disc disease in the cervical spine who are experiencing neck pain, arm pain, numbness, or weakness. Preserving motion in the neck can help reduce the risk of adjacent segment disease, a condition where the levels above or below a fusion may degenerate more quickly.
• Lumbar Disc Replacement: This procedure involves replacing a damaged disc in the lower back. It may be an option for patients with low back pain and leg pain caused by degenerative disc disease. While lumbar disc replacement aims to preserve motion in the lower back, the long-term benefits compared to fusion are still being studied.

The Disc Replacement Procedure

The disc replacement procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. Anesthesia: You will be placed under general anesthesia.
2. Surgical Approach: The surgeon will access the spine through an incision, which may be in the front (anterior approach) or the back (posterior approach), depending on the location of the damaged disc and other factors. Anterior approaches often allow for better visualization and access to the disc space, especially in the lumbar spine.
3. Disc Removal: The damaged or degenerated disc is carefully removed.
4. Artificial Disc Implantation: The artificial disc, which is often made of metal and/or plastic components designed to mimic the function of a natural disc, is precisely implanted into the empty disc space.
5. Closure: The incision is closed, and dressings are applied.

Benefits of Disc Replacement

Compared to spinal fusion, disc replacement may offer several potential benefits:

• Motion Preservation: The primary advantage is the potential to maintain more natural movement at the treated spinal segment.
• Reduced Adjacent Segment Disease: By preserving motion, disc replacement may reduce the stress on the discs above and below the treated level, potentially lowering the risk of them degenerating in the future.
• Faster Recovery: In some cases, patients may experience a faster return to activity compared to spinal fusion.

Risks and Considerations of Disc Replacement

Like any surgical procedure, disc replacement carries potential risks, including:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Nerve damage
• Implant failure or migration
• Persistent pain
• The need for revision surgery

It is important to discuss these risks and benefits thoroughly with your surgeon at Ortho 1 Medical Group to make an informed decision.

Recovery and Rehabilitation After Disc Replacement

Recovery after disc replacement typically involves a shorter hospital stay compared to spinal fusion. You will likely be encouraged to begin walking soon after surgery. Physical therapy will play a crucial role in your rehabilitation, focusing on strengthening your core muscles, improving flexibility, and helping you regain normal function while protecting the surgical area.

Why Choose Ortho 1 Medical Group for Disc Replacement Surgery?

At Ortho 1 Medical Group, you can benefit from:

• Experienced Spine Surgeons: Our surgeons are highly skilled in performing both cervical and lumbar disc replacement procedures.
• Advanced Surgical Techniques: We utilize the latest advancements in spine surgery to optimize outcomes.
• Comprehensive Pre- and Post-Operative Care: We provide thorough evaluations and detailed recovery plans to ensure the best possible results.
• Focus on Motion Preservation: We understand the importance of maintaining spinal mobility and offer disc replacement as a potential solution for eligible patients.

If you are considering disc replacement as an alternative to spinal fusion or have been diagnosed with a damaged disc, contact Ortho 1 Medical Group today to schedule a consultation and learn if this procedure is right for you.