What is Disc Replacement Surgery

What is Disc Replacement Surgery?

Disc replacement surgery is a surgical procedure that offers a good alternative to spinal fusion for treating degenerated disc disease and related pain.

Disc Replacement involves replacing a damaged disc with an artificial disc, this allows for near normal spinal motion and reduced pain, improving spine function and preserving motion.

Disc replacement surgery, also known as artificial disc replacement, involves removing a damaged or degenerated disc in the spine and replacing it with an artificial disc. The Disc Replacement procedure aims to preserve spinal motion and alleviate pain caused by disc problems, offering a good alternative to spinal fusion surgery.

What is a spinal disc?

• The disc acts as a cushion between the vertebrae (spinal bones), allowing for movement and absorbing shock.

• Degeneration or damage to these discs can lead to pain, nerve compression, and limited mobility.

When is disc replacement surgery performed vs spinal fusion surgery.

• Early Stage Degenerative disc disease:
The natural wear and tear on the discs can cause them to degenerate, leading to pain and instability.

• Less than four Herniated discs:
When the disc bulges or ruptures, it can press on spinal nerves, causing pain and numbness.

• When Spinal stenosis is in early stages:
A narrowing of the spinal canal can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, causing pain and neurological symptoms.

How is disc replacement surgery performed?

• Removal of the damaged disc:
The surgeon carefully removes the diseased or damaged disc.

• Artificial disc placement:
An artificial disc, often made of medical-grade metal and plastic, is then placed in its space.

• Restoration of motion:
The artificial disc allows for normal movement of the spine, unlike spinal fusion, which welds vertebrae together, limiting spinal motion.

What are the Benefits of disc replacement surgery?

• Preservation of spinal motion:
This can lead to better long-term outcomes and reduce the risk of problems at adjacent spine levels.

• Relief of pain:
By removing the source of pain and restoring normal disc height, the surgery can alleviate pain.

• Improved function:
The improved ability to move freely can allow patients to return to normal activities they enjoy.

In summary: To answer the question "What is Disc Reoplacement Surgery?", Disc replacement surgery is a surgical procedure that offers a good alternative to spinal fusion surgery for treating degenerated disc disease, spinal stenosis, and the related pain. Disc Replacement Surgery involves replacing a damaged disc with an artificial disc, this allows for near normal spinal motion and reduced pain, improving spine function and preserving motion.