Disc Replacement
Disc replacements are ideal for the younger patient who has degenerative disc disease causing low back pain/leg symtoms or neck/arm pain..
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Disc replacement technology
Disc replacements have now been approved for use in the United States. The replacement technology has gone through multiple revisions since its infancy in Europe. Disc replacements are ideal for the younger patient who has degenerative disc disease causing low back pain.
As with other spinal treatments, not everyone would benefit from this new technology. Its important to have a full work up of your spinal condition by a spine specialist to determine the best surgical approach to help you.
Disc replacement benefits:
Preservation of motion
Avoidance of surgery through the back [the discs are replaced through the abdomen]
Probable decrease likelihood of adjacent level problems in the future
Disc replacement pitfalls:
Revision [repeat] surgery is very difficult and dangerous
There is potential wear down of the disc and inflammatory reaction surrounding the disc
Long term results still not available compared to proven fusion technology.
