What Is Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery?
If you’ve suffered an injury to your spine, you may need to see a spinal expert for assistance. Depending on the severity of the injury, you may potentially need to have artificial disc replacement surgery. Here, we’ll go over what artificial disc replacement surgery is as well as whether you need it for your spinal injury or condition.
How Is Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery Performed?
Artificial disc replacement surgery acts as an alternative to spinal fusion for the treatment of an unstable or outright painful degeneration of the spine.
A spinal fusion is the fusing together of two or more bones in the spine, known as vertebrae. This fusion is performed using metal plates and screws which work to reduce or eliminate any motion happening between them, reducing any pain you’d otherwise feel.
Artificial disc surgery is the replacement of damaged discs with prosthetic disc alternatives. These allow the spine a full-on range of motion and movement while simultaneously reducing any pain felt and improving the person’s overall stability.
Are You A Qualifying Candidate For Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery?
Depending on your situation, you may be a good candidate to receive artificial disc surgery, particularly if you are suffering neck or back pain or have suffered a debilitating neck or back injury, as this may have led to a damaged or degenerated disc. You may also qualify for artificial disc replacement surgery if you’ve previously tried non-surgical methods (such as physical therapy or spinal adjustments) and have not seen any results.
As it deals with the spinal vertebrae, you may not be a qualifying candidate if you are suffering from multiple spinal injuries. Similarly, if you are suffering from nerve damage along the spine due to connective tissue or excess bones putting pressure on your nerves, you may also not qualify for disc replacement surgery. Depending on the nature of your injury, your doctor will opt for medical imaging to see what areas are being affected.
Spine Can Help
At the Center for Artificial Disc Replacement, the experts are fully trained and capable of improving all aspects of the spine. This can range from the upper area, helping to restore motion in the head too; the uppermost cervical areas and their different disc types; or the lower lumbar area and its ability to help walk. There, they provide a holistic approach to repairing your neck and back damage and should be reasonably considered for anyone seeking pain relief of any kind.