Four Things to Know About Disc Replacement Surgery

Most people experience neck or back pain at some point in their lives. For some, the discomfort is temporary. But for others, the pain persists, making everyday activities difficult.

Neck and back pain can have many causes. One is the wearing down of spinal discs known as degenerative disc disease. Orthopedists focus on conservative, non-operative treatments first such as physical therapy and steroid injections before considering surgery. If these methods are not successful, surgical solutions can be helpful for many people.

1. Disc degeneration is a normal part of aging.

Spinal discs are the rubbery cushions between the spinal bones called vertebrae. Your discs act as shock absorbers in the neck (cervical) and lower back (lumbar) spine and help with movement and flexibility.

Discs wear down with age. Most people have some disc degeneration after age 40, although not everyone has symptoms. But for some, weakened discs can cause problems.

In addition to neck pain and back pain, degenerative disc disease symptoms can include:

• Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
• Pain that radiates to the arms and hands or the buttocks and legs
• Muscle weakness
• Balance or coordination issues

Neck and back pain treatment usually begins with nonsurgical approaches, such as physical therapy, medications, and steroid injections. But if symptoms fail to respond to these treatments, surgery may be an option.

2. Disc replacement is a relatively new surgical alternative.

Disc replacement surgery involves removing and replacing a damaged disc with an artificial one made of medical-grade metal or plastic. Surgery can replace a cervical or lumbar disc, although cervical disc replacements are more common.

The procedure is an alternative to traditional spinal fusion surgery for some patients. Spinal fusion connects two or more vertebrae, so they heal as one bone. While spinal fusion relieves symptoms and may still be the best option for some patients, the fused area is immobilized, affecting normal movement.

Artificial disc replacement is gaining favor for its ability to preserve spinal motion. In addition, research shows the procedure creates less stress on adjacent discs than spinal fusion, reducing the likelihood of additional surgeries.

Patients with pain caused by one or two discs may be good candidates for disc replacement surgery. Your surgeon will consider other factors, such as imaging tests, health status, and surgical history, to determine the most appropriate treatment.

3. Artificial disc replacement is a minimally invasive option.

While disc replacement surgery is performed differently depending on the damaged disc’s location, both procedures involve a minimally invasive approach.

For cervical disc replacement, the surgeon makes a small incision in the front of the neck to expose the spine. Through this opening, the damaged disc is carefully removed and replaced with an artificial disc selected for an optimal fit. For lumbar replacement, the surgeon approaches the lower back through an abdominal incision.

Surgical times range from 90 minutes to three hours, and patients may spend a night or two in the hospital. In certain cases, disc replacement can be performed as an outpatient procedure. Either way, the less-invasive approach allows for faster recovery and return to normal activities.

4. When considering disc replacement surgery, look for experience.

Because there are multiple treatment options for disc conditions, it’s important to consult with a trusted provider who can discuss solutions appropriate for your symptoms, needs, and preferences.