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Artificial Disc Replacement | Disc Replacement Surgery

Artificial Disc Replacement

Artificial Disc Replacement | Disc Replacement Surgery

The more advanced surgical procedure known as Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR) replaces a worn-out, painful, and arthritic lumbar spine intervertebral disc with a metal and plastic prosthesis (artificial disc) through an anterior (front–through the abdomen region) approach. To preserve motion at the disc space, a damaged spinal disc may be surgically replaced with an artificial one during an Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR) treatment. When conservative therapy doesn't improve a patient's degenerative disc condition, this operation is often advised. By restoring normal disc function and relieving pain, ADR minimises the risk of neighbouring segment degeneration, a typical problem associated with Spinal Fusion.

During surgery, the injured disc is removed, and a synthetic disc composed of plastic, metal, or a combination of both is implanted. After spending a few days in the hospital and several weeks of physical therapy and restricted activities, you can attain recovery. In a few months, most patients can resume their regular activities. At Manipal Hospitals, Mukundapur, we have a team of experienced doctors who are proficient in performing Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery with precision, enhancing patient outcomes.

FAQ's

Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR) is recommended in the following circumstances:

  • Degenerative Disc Disease: Pain and restricted movement due to disc degradation

  • Herniated Discs: A condition in which a disc's soft material protrudes and presses against nearby nerves

  • Discogenic Back Pain: The term discogenic back pain refers to ongoing discomfort originating from the disc itself

  • Failed Conservative Treatments: When non-surgical methods such as medicine and physical therapy are unable to relieve symptoms

  • Suitable Candidates: ADR is usually explored for patients who do not have substantial spinal instability and whose neighbouring discs are in good health

A healthcare provider conducts a thorough assessment to pinpoint the root cause of back pain. This entails a thorough medical history and examination, which may concentrate on identifying the specific body positions that trigger pain. Various imaging tests used are:

  • Computed tomography (CT)
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
  • X-rays 

These are among the other tests that physicians prescribe. The doctor will often use a minimum of two of these imaging modalities to evaluate the patient's bones and discs before recommending surgery. Doctors may perform a provocative discogram to confirm whether the pain originates from a damaged or degenerated disc seen on imaging.

The process of replacing artificial discs typically lasts between two and three hours. Your surgical team will make an incision in your abdomen and approach your lower back from the front. To access your spine, it is necessary to move the blood vessels and organs to the side while ensuring the nerves remain undisturbed. A vascular surgeon may assist the orthopaedic surgeon in opening and exposing the disc space.

Your surgeon will remove the problematic disc from your body and then implant an artificial disc in the disc space.

The following are some benefits of Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR) in spine care:

  • Maintains flexibility and motion of the spine as opposed to fusion

  • Decreased the possibility of adjacent segment degeneration

  • Quick recovery and can resume regular activities early

  • Reduced chance of problems following surgery, such as pseudoarthrosis

  • Possibility of better long-term results and happier patients

  • Reduced necessity for follow-up procedures because of the disease at the neighbouring level

  • Preserves the natural biomechanics of the spine, reducing the strain on nearby discs

  • Ideal for younger, more active patients who want to keep their mobility and standard of living intact

Artificial Disc Replacement has some hazards, much like any surgery under general anaesthesia. These could consist of:

  • Bleeding 
  • Nerve damage
  • Infection
  • Sensitivity to the components of the artificial disc
  • Malfunction or deterioration of the disc's parts
  • Failure to heal after surgery 
  • Implant dislocation 
  • Injury to the vertebra on which the disc replacement is implanted

To decrease the occurrence of surgical complications post-surgery, it is crucial to consider the following factors:

  • Stop using blood thinners and disclose any anaesthesia reactions before surgery.

  • To reduce the risk of lung cancer and blood clots, stop smoking.

  • Manage diabetes to reduce the chance of infection.

  • Following surgery, take all prescribed drugs, particularly pain relievers and antibiotics.

  • Continue your activity level after surgery to promote healing and avoid blood clots.

  • To reduce ADR problems and make sure of appropriate disc size and placement, consult an experienced spine surgeon.

  • Let your surgeon know if you have any metal sensitivities so that they can choose the right disc.

  • Implant wear or failure is uncommon with contemporary, long-lasting devices.

The recovery period following an Artificial Disc Replacement typically lasts three to five weeks, although it differs for each patient. While many patients can resume mild activities and desk work in as little as one week, some may not reach their maximum level of activity for up to three months. The recovery period for Artificial Disc Replacement surgery is notably shorter than that of Spinal Fusion surgery since the vertebrae do not need to fuse.

Many of the manufacturers claim that these devices should have a 40-year lifespan. The Artificial Disc Replacement maintains motion similar to that of a healthy spinal disc, in contrast to a Spinal Fusion that restricts motion by fusing two adjacent vertebrae.

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