What is Disc Replacement Surgery?

Disc replacement surgery (arthroplasty) involves replacing a damaged intervertebral disc of the spinal column with an artificial disc to restore the normal function and mobility of the spine.

The main goal of disc replacement surgery is to reduce back pain and provide stability without limiting the patient’s range of motion following the procedure. It can be performed on the cervical (upper) or lumbar (lower) spine. The disc prosthesis is designed to re-establish the original disc height and emulate the natural biomechanics and movement of the spine. Disc replacement is an option for certain patients when non-surgical measures have failed to resolve or reduce symptoms. It is an alternative to the traditional anterior discectomy, decompression and fusion techniques.

The need for Cervical Disc Replacement

A surgical technique used to remove the degenerated disc and replace it with an artificial disc is cervical disc replacement. The procedure is done to alleviate the symptoms caused by the narrowing of the vertebrae or the increased pressure of the cervical disc on the spinal cord. The signs can include spinal cord numbness, weakness, and pain.

From the degenerated disc itself, the pain may develop. It may also occur from other structures which may become overloaded due to narrowing or degeneration of the cervical disc, such as small joints (facet joints) present at the back of the spine.

The narrowing of the cervical disc continues slowly, leading to the sinking of the lower vertebrae. This puts more strain on the joints of the facet, which may ultimately pinch the root of the nerve. This can give rise to leg pain and other associated symptoms.

Disc replacement surgery is a cure to discomfort related to disc degeneration, but only if any non-surgical treatment is not undertaken by the patient. In place of the degenerated disc, the artificial disc is implanted and it mimics the behavior of a natural and healthy disc.

This helps preserve the cervical disc’s natural movement. It also helps to reduce tension on other areas of the spine, such as the root of the nerve.

Disc Replacement Surgery

After disc replacement surgery the hospital stay is usually 2 to 4 days depending on your progress. You should be able to walk and stand by the first day after surgery. A brace or corset may be prescribed for support. Basic exercises such as walking and stretching are usually initiated during the first several weeks after surgery. However, hyperextension activities should be avoided.