What is disc replacement surgery?

Disc replacement surgery, also known as artificial disc replacement, is a procedure aimed at treating problems associated with worn or injured spinal discs. When discs in the spine decay or become damaged, it can lead to pain along the spine and can affect a person’s mobility. To address these issues, surgeons replace damaged discs with artificial implants to relieve pain and restore stability while preserving the natural motion of the spine. When performed by an experienced orthopedic surgeon, disc replacement surgery can enhance your quality of life.

Types of disc replacement

Artificial disc replacement is typically categorized based on the location in the spine where the pain is felt. If the pain is in the upper part of the spine, neck, or arm, cervical disc replacement is used to replace the problematic discs. However, if the pain is in the lower part of the spine or lower back, your doctor might recommend lumbar spine disc replacement. Both treatments are modern alternatives to spinal fusion, a treatment that relieves pain but may limit a person’s ability to fully turn their neck or make movements that reply on the spine. Cervical and spinal disc replacement are designed to address pain without limiting spinal flexibility.

Who is a candidate for disc replacement?

You may be a good candidate for artificial disc replacement if you have a spinal problem that hasn’t responded to other treatments. Severe symptoms, including pain, numbness, tingling, muscle weakness, balance issues, and loss of bladder or bowel control that persist despite other therapies, may also indicate the need for this procedure. Once your doctor has performed a thorough evaluation, they may recommend disc replacement if:

  • The source of your pain is originating from one or two problematic discs in the cervical or lumbar spine
  • You have experienced chronic neck or low back pain due to degenerative disc disease that hasn’t responded to at least six months of non-surgical therapies
  • There is no significant facet joint disease or nerve compression in the spine
  • There are no structural spinal deformities like spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, scoliosis, or osteoporosis
  • You have no history of major spine surgery and maintain a healthy weight

Ultimately, consulting with a spine surgery expert who specializes in artificial disc replacement is the best way to determine if this treatment is right for you.

What happens during disc replacement surgery?

During disc replacement surgery, you'll be placed under general anesthesia, ensuring you are asleep and pain-free throughout the procedure. A team of skilled surgeons, often including a vascular surgeon and an orthopedic or neurosurgeon, will work together to perform the procedure. It typically takes about two to three hours to complete.

Here’s what to expect:  

  • The surgery begins with an incision in your abdomen or neck, depending on the part of spine being treated. This allows access to the spine without disturbing the spinal nerves.
  • Your organs and blood vessels will be gently moved to the side, providing a clear path to the affected disc.
  • The damaged disc will be carefully removed, including any portions pressing on nerves and nerve roots.
  • The vertebral bones will be prepared to receive the artificial disc.
  • The artificial disc, chosen based on your specific needs, will be inserted into the spine to simulate natural function.
  • Once the artificial disc is in place, your organs and muscles will be returned to their normal positions, and the incision will be closed with absorbable stitches.  

What is the recovery time for disc replacement surgery?

Recovery following disc replacement surgery typically involves a hospital stay of one to three days. Shortly after the surgery, you may be encouraged to stand and walk. You may also receive a corset or neck brace for added support and faster healing. While you’ll initially be on a clear liquid diet, you’ll gradually progress to a liquid and semi-solid diet and, eventually, to your normal diet.

When it’s time to leave the hospital, your doctor may instruct you to avoid activities that excessively stretch or strain your spine. This includes activities like driving, heavy lifting, bending, and twisting for at least four to six weeks after surgery. Your Penn Medicine care team will provide you with specific recovery instructions that cover topics such as bathing and hygiene, dressing changes, restrictions on certain activities, medications, and follow-up appointments. Most patients can resume normal activities within three months. Following the provided instructions, caring for your incision, and attending follow-up appointments as recommended will help ensure a successful recovery.

Our dedicated team will be there to support you throughout your recovery, monitoring you to ensure proper healing and providing you with the rehabilitative tools you need to regain your strength and mobility. 

What are the risks of having disc replacement surgery?

There are always risks involved with undergoing surgery. However, when performed by an experienced surgeon, disc replacement is a safe and effective way to alleviate chronic back and neck pain and restore mobility. Your Penn Medicine care team will discuss any risks with you, as well as any concerns you may have, to ensure you feel well-informed and comfortable with your treatment plan.

Patients who choose Penn Medicine benefit from a team of compassionate experts who are dedicated to reducing risks to ensure you have the best outcome. Some potential risks your doctor may discuss with you, include: 

  • Dislocation or dislodging of the artificial disc
  • Implant failure, fracture, or loosening
  • Infection of the artificial disc or surrounding area
  • Movement difficulties
  • Potential need for additional surgery to remove or replace the implant
  • Spinal stiffness or rigidity  

Expert spine care at Penn Medicine

At Penn Medicine, we provide the most advanced treatment options and expert care for your back and spine. What makes us so special is that we focus on you, making sure you get the treatment that’s just right for you. If one doctor isn’t quite what you need, we’ll find the right one for you in our vast network of providers. Our team of spine experts work together to give you the best care possible. Whether your spine issue is simple or more complex, we’re here to help you get better.

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