Artificial Disc Replacement
A Cervical and Lumbar Disc Replacement procedure removes a damaged spinal disc and replaces it with an artificial disc that mimics the original in order to restore the motion to the spine. This type of back surgery is considered an alternative to spinal fusion, which permanently joins two vertebrae together. Artificial disc surgery is commonly recommended treatment for the following cases:
- The problem is not caused by nerve compression or facet joint issues
- The patient does not have a spinal deformity condition (i.e scoliosis)
- The problem is caused by one or two spinal discs
- The patient’s spine is already mature and no longer growing
- The patient has no history of previous spine surgeries
- The patient is not overweight
Procedure
A Cervical Disc Replacement surgery is performed through a minimally invasive incision in the abdomen. On the case of a Lumbar Disc Replacement surgery, the incision is made on the front side of the neck. Next, the surgeon gently replaces the faulty disc with a mechanical, man-made prosthesis (artificial disc) with the goal of restoring normal motion to the spine.
Since a disc replacement is a minimally invasive procedure, it often offers speedy recovery time and a minimal hospital stay. In addition to the potential for improvement in those patients who experienced minimal or no relief from a spinal fusion.
Our Spine Surgeons have been performing Disc Replacement procedures for years in Boca Raton. For a preferred Disc Replacement specialist in Boca Raton, call 561-549-9090.