Lower back pain from a degenerative or herniated disc can significantly impact your quality of life. One advanced treatment option for this condition is lumbar disc replacement surgery. Depending on your situation, this procedure could be the right solution for your pain.
What is Lumbar Disc Replacement?
Lumbar disc replacement is a surgical procedure that removes a damaged or degenerative disc in your lower spine and replaces it with an artificial disc. Unlike spinal fusion surgery, which permanently joins two vertebrae together, disc replacement allows for continued movement of the spine. This makes it an attractive option for patients who want to maintain full spinal mobility while alleviating pain.
Are You a Good Candidate for Lumbar Disc Replacement?
Not everyone with lower back pain is a good candidate for lumbar disc replacement. Typically, candidates for this surgery:
- Have confirmed disc degeneration or herniation in the lumbar spine
- Do not have multiple adjacent herniated discs
- Experience chronic pain, numbness, or weakness in the lower back and legs due to a herniated lumbar disc
- Have not found relief from conservative treatments like physical therapy, medications, or injections
- Do not have significant spinal deformities or severe facet joint disease
- Are generally healthy and not significantly overweight
- Are between the ages of 20 and 60
If you meet these criteria, you may be a good candidate for lumbar disc replacement. A comprehensive evaluation by an orthopedic spine specialist can determine whether this procedure is appropriate and the best option for you.
What are the Benefits of Lumbar Disc Replacement Surgery?
Lumbar disc replacement can alleviate symptoms associated with a herniated lumbar disc, thereby greatly improving quality of life. In addition, it offers several advantages over spinal fusion surgery:
- Preserves Motion: The primary benefit of disc replacement is that it allows the spine to move naturally, reducing the risk of degeneration in the adjacent discs.
- Faster Recovery: Patients typically experience a quicker recovery and return to daily activities compared to those who undergo fusion surgery.
- Fewer Complications: Research suggests that disc replacement surgery has a lower complication rate than fusion surgery, making it a safer option for many patients.
- Long-Term Relief: Artificial spinal discs can last up to 20 years or more, offering long-term relief for many individuals suffering from lumbar disc degeneration.
Making an Informed Decision
If lumbar disc replacement sounds like it could be the right procedure for you, the next step is to consult with a qualified spine surgeon. Meeting with an orthopedic spine surgeon will allow them to evaluate your medical history, perform necessary imaging tests, and recommend the best treatment for you (whether that is lumbar disc replacement or another treatment). They will also be able to discuss the potential benefits and risks of the procedure with you and help you make an informed decision about whether to pursue lower back surgery.
To schedule a consultation with our orthopedic spine surgeon, call (714) 538-8549 or contact us online today.