Lumbar disc replacement is a treatment that replaces the injured disc with a prosthesis instead of fusion. Disc replacement Dayton works by removing or replacing the damaged or malformed disc and successfully replacing the injured section with a healthy one. The technique is an effective therapy option for significant spine injuries, spondylolisthesis, and disc degeneration. Lumbar disc replacement has several advantages over other surgeries, such as fusion. The prevalent benefits of lumbar disc replacement include the following:
- Less pain and enhanced quality of life: This treatment is more successful than other surgical approaches. This is because the procedure removes pressure on the spinal cord, decreases pain, and restores flexibility.
- Favorable short-term and long-term outcomes: This technique is beneficial because it offers good long-term results both now and in the future. The number of discs replaced, as well as the length of the operation, impact the long-term result.
- It is less invasive than alternative techniques: The surgery is less invasive since the nerve roots are not removed as in spinal fusions. This implies that you can still feel sensations from your extremities following surgery, lowering your chances of incontinence.
- Relieves nerve pressure: Shocks and stressors on the spine can cause excruciating pain. These stresses might potentially cause other injuries. Disc replacement reduces these forces and allows you to operate properly.
- It may be used on any level of the spine: The replacement can be used at any level of the spine. Back pain can impact you at various levels of the spine. For example, lumbar disc replacement can treat back pain at any spine level, albeit surgery is more helpful for certain people in the thoracic or cervical area.
An overview of lumbar disc replacement
A lumbar disk replacement is a form of back or spine surgery. Your spine is made up of stacked vertebrae. Disks between the vertebrae act as cushions, allowing the vertebrae to rotate and move without rubbing against one other. The lumbar vertebrae and disks are located near the base of your spine. Lumbar disk replacement entails replacing a damaged or degenerative disk in the lower section of your spine with an artificial disk composed of metal or a mix of metal and plastic. Lumbar disk replacement is often considered an option for more common spinal fusion surgery. Fusion permanently connects two vertebrae. Furthermore, lumbar disk replacement surgery is a serious procedure that necessitates general anesthesia and a hospital stay.
How does hybrid lumbar fusion surgery compare to traditional lumbar surgery?
According to research, hybrid lumbar surgery produces good results. Patients get back pain reduction, reduced disability, increased capacity to function, and significant mobility in the lower spine. Hybrid lumbar surgery (one fusion, one ADR) gives greater pain alleviation and physical function than two-level lumbar fusion. Also, the advantages of hybrid lumbar surgery remain for a long time.
A lumbar disk replacement often alleviates discomfort, although it does not entirely eradicate it. Speak with your doctor for a realistic picture of what to expect following this procedure. Also, discuss with your specialist what directions you must follow after surgery, what you can and cannot do, how to maintain your incision, indicators of concerns to look out for, and when you must return to the physician. Call Vertrae® or book your appointment online to determine if you are the right candidate for lumbar disc replacement procedures.
