The success rate of artificial disk replacement is up to 93% overall. Hence, it proves the best treatment option for lumbar and spine treatment. Artificial disk replacement, also famous as spinal disk replacement, is a surgical procedure that replaces a damaged or degenerated spinal disk with an artificial device made of metal or plastic. The procedure aims to relieve back pain and restore the spine's normal functioning.
This surgical procedure is an alternative to spinal fusion, which involves fusing two vertebral bones. Moreover, artificial disk replacement surgery is a minimally invasive procedure typically performed under general anesthesia.
Steps Involve In Artificial Disk Replacement Surgery
Artificial disc replacement is one of the safest ways to treat lumbar and spinal disk issues. Hence, this surgical treatment typically involves the following steps:
1. Make patient unconscious
The surgeon gives general anesthesia to the patients to render them unconscious and pain-free during the procedure.
2. Make incision
A small incision is made in the lower back near the affected disk. Then the muscles are gently moved aside to access the spine.
3. Removal of the damaged disk
After the incision, the injured disk is removed and replaced with an artificial disk.
4. Implantation of the artificial disk
In the end, the artificial disk is implanted in the same location as the removed disk and secured with screws or other fixation devices.
5. Closure of the incision
Sutures or staples close the surgical site after performing the surgery. After that, a bandage covers the incision site.
6. Postoperative care
After the disk replacement procedure, the patient keeps under observation for any complications. A patient sometimes needs to wear a back brace to help support the spine as it heals. Besides this, physical therapy is another option to help improve mobility and strength.
Special Note: It is important to note that this general description of the procedure may vary depending on the individual case and the specific surgical approach used. Before surgery, patients should discuss the details of their procedure with their surgeon to avoid complications afterward.
Pros of Artificial Disk Replacement
Provides pain relief
Artificial disk replacement can provide significant pain relief for patients with degenerative disk disease, herniated disks, or other conditions that cause chronic back pain.
Improves mobility
The restored movement in the affected spine can result in improved mobility and reduced pain and stiffness.
Minimally invasive procedure
Artificial disc replacement surgery is typically minimally invasive, meaning smaller incisions, less pain, and faster recovery time than traditional spinal fusion.
Avoids fusion
Unlike spinal fusion, artificial disk replacement does not involve permanently fusing the vertebral bones, which can preserve more of the natural movement and flexibility of the spine.
Cons of Artificial Disk Replacement:
Risk of implant failure
As with any surgical implant, there is a risk of artificial disk failure. This can occur if the device wears out, dislodges, or the surrounding tissue reacts negatively to the implant.
Need for revision surgery
In some cases, revision surgery is necessary to replace a failed artificial disk or address other complications.
Limited availability
Artificial disk replacement is yet to be widely available and may only be viable for some.
Expensive
Artificial disk replacement is typically more expensive than traditional spinal fusion and may not cover all insurance plans.
It is important to note that each patient's experience with artificial disk replacement differs. Also, you should discuss the potential benefits and risks with a healthcare provider before your surgery.
Disk Replacement Surgery from Experts
You should visit an expert neurosurgeon if you have problems in your spine and lumbar disks. So, people living in Plano, Texas, have the best option for artificial disk replacement surgery because of Dr. Abdul Baker. He is an expert in minimally invasive procedures for disk replacement and much more.
Final Thoughts
Artificial disk replacement is necessary when a person's natural inter-vertebral disk is damaged or degenerated, causing pain, spinal instability, or nerve compression. The procedure involves removing and replacing the damaged disk with an artificial device. Moreover, the device is usually of metal, plastic, or a combination of materials, which can restore normal spinal alignment and function. Above all, disk replacement aims to relieve pain and improve mobility, allowing a person to return to normal activities.