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An artificial lumbar disc replacement is an emerging spinal surgery that is used to replace an intervertebral disc that has been damaged or diagnosed with degenerative disease. This motion preservation technology aims to replace the afflicted disc while maintaining normal spine motion. Patients suffering from chronic back or leg pain or disability resulting from lumbar disc degeneration may be candidates for this spinal surgery procedure. University Spine Associates will discuss whether artificial lumbar disc replacement is right for you.
Spinal Surgery Procedure and Recovery
Lumbar artificial disc replacement is done through the anterior of the spine, with an incision made through the abdomen or belly of the patient. With the assistance of a surgical microscope or loupe magnification, the surgeon will remove the affected disc material. The empty disc space is restored to the normal disc height and the artificial disc device is inserted in place. Most patients will notice a gradual improvement in his or her condition over the next weeks to months post surgery, but will be able to perform very light activities within a day of surgery. Patients may be able to return to work approximately two to four weeks after surgery and regular activity after six weeks. Long term outcome studies from artificial disc replacement are still underway and needed. Patients need to be well versed in the potential downside from disc replacement prior to deciding on which procedure to use.
For patients suffering from back or neck pain as a result of cervical disc degeneration, University Spine Associates may also offer artificial cervical disc replacement in the appropriate setting. |
