If chronic back pain is stealing your life’s joy and conservative treatments haven’t helped, it’s time to explore cutting-edge solutions.
SWAN Brain & Spine offers Lumbar Artificial Disc Replacement, an advanced procedure that might be your key to a pain-free, active life.
Our expert team at SWAN Brain & Spine utilizes cutting-edge technology for this type of arthroplasty, ensuring you receive the highest standard of care and the best possible outcome. *Dr. Moon and Dr. Chowdhary are among the few providers in Arizona performing this innovative motion-preserving procedure.
What is Lumbar Artificial Disc Replacement (Total Disc Arthroplasty)?
Lumbar or low back artificial disc replacement is a surgical option designed to relieve pain and restore movement in patients with damaged or degenerated discs in the lower (lumbar) spine. It may also be recommended for patients with:
- Discogenic back pain
- Lumbar radiculopathy
- Lumbar spondylolisthesis
Unlike spinal fusion, which permanently joins vertebrae, artificial disc replacement preserves natural motion, offering you greater flexibility.
Advantages of Lumbar Artificial Disc Replacement over a Spinal Fusion
Lumbar disc replacement is most effective when the pain is primarily caused by one or two degenerated discs. Patients who undergo this procedure can reap the following benefits:
Pain relief
The most significant benefit is a substantial reduction in chronic back pain caused by damaged or degenerated discs.
Preserved range of motion
Unlike spinal fusion, which eliminates movement in the fused section, artificial disc replacement surgery maintains a greater degree of natural spinal motion (bending, twisting).
Faster recovery
Recovery after disc replacement is often quicker compared to traditional spinal fusion. Many patients can return to regular activities sooner.
Reduced need for revision surgery
With less ongoing stress on adjacent spinal levels, there may be a reduced risk of needing additional surgeries.
Improved quality of life
With less pain and improved mobility, patients often experience a significant boost in their overall quality of life – engaging in activities they had to abandon due to pain.
Ideal candidates for Lumbar Artificial Disc Replacement
Lumbar disc replacement is highly effective, but it’s not suitable for all patients with back pain. That’s why at SWAN Brain & Spine, our board-certified spine surgeons thoroughly evaluate each patient first through physical examination, medical history review, and diagnostic procedures.
Once our surgeons identify the root cause of your back pain, they will then work with you to determine if you’re a good candidate for this surgery. Lumbar disc replacement is best suited for patients who fit the following criteria:
- The primary source of pain is moderate to severe degeneration of one or two discs in the lumbar spine (usually L3-L4, L4-L5 or L5-S1 levels).
- Back pain is predominantly located in the lower back, though some leg pain may be present.
- Are generally in good health.
- Have tried and not found relief from at least six months of non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, medication, or injections.
It’s important to note that these are general guidelines, and the decision to pursue an artificial disc replacement surgery is ultimately based on a thorough evaluation by your qualified spine surgeon.
Dr. Moon and Dr. Chowdhary, our esteemed spine surgeons at SWAN Brain & Spine, will consider the patient’s needs, medical history, and the specific characteristics of their cervical disc disease to determine if the procedure is the right treatment option.
What can you expect during the Lumbar Artificial Disc Replacement procedure?
At SWAN Brain & Spine, the lumbar artificial disc replacement procedure is a well-structured, patient-centered experience designed to optimize outcomes and minimize discomfort.
Here’s what you can generally expect:
Pre-operative Evaluation
Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation. Our Doctors will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and perform a physical examination.
Diagnostic tests like MRI or CT scans will be ordered to assess the extent of your lumbar disc disease and confirm your candidacy for an arthroplasty.
Additionally, you will receive detailed instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including dietary restrictions and medication adjustments.
During surgery
You’ll receive general anesthesia to ensure comfort and painlessness throughout the procedure.
- Using a small incision in your abdomen, a general or vascular surgeon accesses your spine, moving vital organs and blood vessels aside for safety. This minimally invasive approach helps reduce tissue trauma and promote faster recovery.
- Your spine surgeon carefully removes the damaged disc material. They will then prepare the space of the artificial disc, ensuring proper fit and alignment.
- The lumbar artificial disc device is inserted into the empty disc space. It’s designed with metal endplates and a polyethylene core, mimicking the natural movement of a healthy disc. The lumbar artificial disc is secured to your vertebrae with a keel that holds it firmly in place while the healing process takes place.
- A fluoroscope (real-time X-ray) allows the surgeon to verify the accurate placement and alignment of the prodisc L.
- The incision is closed using sutures and a dressing is applied.
Post-operative recovery
After surgery, you’ll be transferred to a recovery room for close monitoring. Most patients stay in the hospital overnight. You can expect some pain, which is managed with medication.
Early physical therapy is crucial for recovery. You’ll work with a therapist to regain strength and flexibility and gradually return to normal activities.
Additionally, you’ll have regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your progress and address any concerns.
*More specific details about recovery would be discussed in person
Prodisc L Total Disc Replacement
The treatment goal of the Prodisc L total disc replacement is to restore the spine’s normal dynamic function and significantly reduce pain.
The function of the spine is restored through the mechanism of action of the device. Pain reduction is achieved through the re-establishment of the disc height and maintained by the prosthesis.
The increase in height and the elimination of the herniated disc “opens” constricted nerve paths, and the vertebral joints are restored to their physiological position.
Prior to the development of artificial discs, the only surgical option was fusion, in which adjacent vertebral bodies are permanently “fused together” using implants, bone chips, and/or cages.
Prodisc L aims to maintain mobility at the affected intervertebral disc and reduce the extra loading on the adjacent intervertebral discs.
Our experienced surgeon and non surgical team will guide you through every step, ensuring a safe and effective surgery with optimal recovery. (Learn more about Prodisc L for total disc replacement).
SWAN Brain & Spine: Your Destination for Unparalleled Spinal Care
At SWAN Brain & Spine, we understand the debilitating nature of chronic back pain. That’s why our team of highly trained spine specialists is ready to be your partner in achieving a pain-free, active life.
