Why Disc Replacement Surgery Might Be the Best Option for Your Spine

09 Sep Why Disc Replacement Surgery Might Be the Best Option for Your Spine

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Spinal surgery encompasses a range of procedures that address issues with the bones, discs, and nerves of the spinal column. These operations are typically recommended when non-surgical treatments have not provided sufficient relief from pain or disability. The primary goal of spinal surgery is to restore function and enhance a person’s quality of life. One such procedure is disc replacement surgery, which offers an alternative to spinal fusion for certain conditions. Here’s information on disc replacement surgery and who it can benefit:

Who May Need a Replacement Surgery?

Individuals experiencing chronic back pain stemming from a damaged or degenerated spinal disc may be candidates for disc replacement surgery. This pain often results from conditions like degenerative disc disease, where the discs that cushion the vertebrae wear down over time. When a disc is compromised, it can lead to pain, weakness, or numbness that radiates into the limbs.

When you have an active infection or other health conditions impacting your spine, you may not be a candidate for a disc replacement. Some factors that impact whether someone can have surgery include:

Osteoporosis
Neuromuscular Conditions
Cervical Spine Instability
Facet Arthropathy

In total disc replacement procedures, a surgeon removes a damaged spinal disc and replaces it with an artificial one. Unlike spinal fusion, which permanently joins two or more vertebrae, disc replacement helps preserve the natural motion of the spine. A suitable candidate for this surgery is typically someone who has not found relief from more conservative treatments, like physical therapy or medication, and has significant discomfort from only one or two damaged discs.

What Happens During a Replacement?

During a disc replacement procedure, the surgeon makes an incision to access the spine from the front, commonly from the neck. This approach allows the surgeon to reach the spinal column without disturbing the spinal nerves. Muscles and tendons are carefully moved aside to expose the affected vertebra and disc.

Once the damaged disc is visible, the surgeon removes it. The space between the vertebrae is then prepared, and the artificial disc device is inserted into its place. These devices are typically composed of metal plates that anchor to the vertebrae, made of metals like:

Stainless Steal
Titanium
Cobalt

After the artificial disc is secured, the surgeon repositions the muscles and closes the incision.

What Happens After a Replacement?

The recovery process following disc replacement surgery is gradual. Patients usually stay in the hospital for a few days for observation. A physical therapy program is a key component of recovery, beginning soon after the procedure to help the patient regain strength and mobility. The timeline for returning to daily activities varies for each individual, but many can resume light activities within a few weeks.

One of the primary benefits of disc replacement is the preservation of motion in the treated spinal segment. By maintaining movement, the procedure may reduce the stress transferred to adjacent spinal discs. Many individuals who undergo disc replacement report a significant reduction in back pain symptoms and an improvement in their ability to perform everyday tasks.

Learn More About Disc Replacement Surgery

If you are dealing with spinal discomfort or disc degeneration, a disc replacement may benefit you. A qualified spine specialist can help you understand the procedure, its potential advantages, and who may benefit. Contact a spinal specialist today.