You may have contemplated artificial disc replacement surgery if you suffer from chronic back pain caused by degenerative disc disease or a spinal injury. At spine.md, we specialize in innovative spinal care treatments, such as artificial disc replacement. This article will go into the specifics of this revolutionary surgery, describing how it works and the benefits it offers patients.

The surgical procedure of artificial disc replacement involves replacing a damaged or degenerative spinal disc with an artificial disc. The spine is composed of vertebrae separated by intervertebral discs that function as cushions and shock absorbers. These discs can deteriorate with age, wear and tear, or injury, resulting in persistent pain and decreased mobility.

What is Artificial Disc Replacement?

Artificial disc replacement is a less intrusive alternative to conventional spinal fusion, which fuses two or more vertebrae together to support the spine. Fusion can be successful at relieving pain, but it limits the range of motion of the spine. Artificial disc replacement, on the other hand, preserves the natural movement of the spine, allowing patients to retain a greater degree of flexibility and function.

How is Artificial Disc Replacement Performed?

Our team of seasoned surgeons replaces artificial discs utilizing minimally invasive techniques. This indicates that the process is performed via little incisions as opposed to a massive open operation.

You will be administered general anesthetic prior to surgery to guarantee your comfort throughout the process. Your surgeon will make a small incision in the skin over your spine and delicately separate the muscles to gain access to the injured disc while you are unconscious.

The damaged disc is then removed and replaced with an artificial disc whose function is designed to resemble that of a natural disc. The artificial disc is often composed of metal or a combination of metal and plastic, and is intended to resist the same amount of wear and tear as a natural disc.

After the artificial disc has been positioned, the muscles and tissue are realigned with care, and the incision is closed. Typically, the entire process takes between two and three hours to complete.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

After surgery, you will be sent to a recovery room where any difficulties will be monitored. As the anaesthetic wears off, you may suffer some pain and discomfort, but pain medicine will be offered to alleviate this.

The majority of patients are able to return home within a few days following surgery; however, you may be required to remain in the hospital for a longer amount of time if you experience difficulties or have other health concerns that require prolonged monitoring.

It is essential to adhere to your surgeon’s postoperative care instructions, including taking any prescribed medications and engaging in physical therapy to regain strength and mobility. You can expect to return to the majority of your pre-surgery level of function within a few weeks, but it may take several months to fully recuperate and return to your pre-surgery level of activity.

Benefits of Artificial Disc Replacement

Several benefits are associated with artificial disc replacement surgery, including:

• Artificial disc replacement can dramatically lessen or eliminate persistent back pain, allowing patients to resume normal daily activities and enjoy a greater quality of life.
• Because artificial disc replacement preserves the natural movement of the spine, patients typically enjoy increased mobility and flexibility after surgery.
• Artificial disc replacement is a less invasive operation than spinal fusion surgery, which often results in a shorter and less painful recovery period. Most patients can return home.

Normal activities may be resumed within a few weeks of surgery, however full recovery may take several months.

As a less intrusive treatment, artificial disc replacement provides a reduced risk of problems when compared to spinal fusion surgery.

Although the initial cost of artificial disc replacement may be higher than that of spinal fusion, it can result in cheaper long-term expenditures due to the reduced need for further procedures and the possibility to keep a greater degree of function and mobility.

Conclusion

Artificial disc replacement is a viable surgical treatment option for patients with chronic back pain caused by degenerative disc degeneration or a spinal injury specializing in innovative spinal care treatments, such as artificial disc replacement. If you are considering this operation, we recommend you to consult with one of our seasoned surgeons to evaluate if it is the best course of action for you.