What is artificial disc replacement?
Spinal discs are soft tissue structures that cushion the space between each individual vertebra in your spine. Discs have a strong, fibrous outer ring called the annulus, and a softer interior layer known as the nucleus.
When discs become severely damaged, they sometimes need to be surgically removed. Artificial disc replacement is a procedure in which a prosthetic device is used to replace a natural disc.
Artificial discs are made of durable materials; a total disc replacement involves a complete prosthetic disc, while a disc nucleus replacement involves a prosthetic nucleus that fits inside the annulus.
What conditions can disc replacement address?
The experienced team at Polaris Spine & Neurosurgery Center performs disc replacement to address several disc-related conditions that cause pain. Some of these include:
- Degenerative disc disease
- Herniated discs
- Arthritis
- Traumatic injuries
Most disc replacement procedures are performed on the lumbar spine to address lower back pain.
Am I a candidate for disc replacement?
If you have pain in your neck and you’ve tried nonsurgical treatments without success, you may qualify for disc replacement surgery.
To determine whether disc replacement is right for you, the highly trained and experienced providers at Polaris Spine & Neurosurgery perform a comprehensive evaluation. This includes a physical exam, a review of your health history, and diagnostic imaging tests such as X-rays or an MRI.
What should I expect if I need disc replacement surgery?
The team performs disc replacement procedures at the outpatient surgery center at Polaris Spine & Neurosurgery under general anesthesia. Your surgeon uses minimally invasive techniques to perform disc replacement as a same-day procedure.
Your surgeon makes small incisions and uses slender surgical instruments and robotically enhanced tools to remove the damaged disc and replace it with the prosthetic device. They close your incisions with dissolving sutures.
You’ll need someone to drive you home after your procedure. Your doctor gives you detailed instructions about at-home care and activity restrictions. Most patients can resume most activities within two weeks of their surgery.
To schedule a consultation for disc replacement with an expert at Polaris Spine & Neurosurgery Center, call today or book online.
