Artificial Disc Replacement

Degenerative Disc Disease Treatment in the Greater San Francisco Bay Area

Artificial disc replacement (ADR) is a surgical procedure that involves implanting an artificial disc composed of metal and plastic into the spine to replace the degenerating disc. ADR can be performed on discs of the lumbar area of the lower back or on cervical discs in the neck area of the spine.

ADR helps relieve chronic lower back or neck pain caused by a degenerating spinal disc. The spinal discs are compressible structures located in between the bones of the spine that act as spacers, shock absorbers and motion units that allow the spine to flex, rotate and bend. The goal of the artificial disc is to imitate the usual form and function of the spinal discs.

Artificial disc replacement at a glance:

  • Artificial disc replacement is a surgical procedure to remove and replace a degenerating spinal disc with an artificial disc implant that helps the spine retain its natural flexibility.
  • Artificial disc replacement can be done on the lower back (lumbar spine) or on the neck (cervical spine).
  • Artificial disc replacement is a potential alternative to spinal fusion surgery to reduce chronic back pain.
  • Candidates for artificial disc replacement may be people with degenerative disc disease and/or those who have not responded to non-surgical procedures.
  • Primary benefits of artificial disc replacement are reduced back pain and improved mobility.
  • Potential complications of artificial disc replacement are allergic reactions to implanted materials or anesthesia, blood restriction or clotting, spinal cord injury or loosening of implants.

However, artificial disc replacements have the potential to wear out over time and require subsequent surgeries. A thorough discussion with an orthopedic surgeon is required to determine the best possible procedure for each individual.

Indications & Contraindications for Artificial Disc Replacement

Indications for ADR will vary for each patient and their type of implant. Some general indications include:

  • Diagnosis of degenerative disc disease
  • Pain from a degenerative disc that has not responded to non-surgical procedures such as physical therapy, manual manipulation, medications and/or injections

A patient may not be a good candidate for artificial disc replacement if one or more of the following contraindications exist:

  • Osteoporosis (a condition in which bones become weak and brittle)
  • Bone disease or infection
  • Problems affecting the circulatory system
  • Obesity

Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery

Cervical ADR is usually performed on patients with a herniated cervical disc, which means the core of the disc leaks out (herniates) and presses on the nearby nerve root, causing debilitating pain in the neck and down the arm due to pinched nerves. This usually occurs due to injury to the neck and is experienced mostly by people 30-50 years old.

A cervical ADR involves surgical removal of an intervertebral disc to decompress the spinal cord. The artificial disc is inserted in place of the removed disc that was between the two cervical vertebrae.

Lumbar ADR is performed through an incision in the abdomen. The surgeon moves organs and blood vessels aside to access the spine without having to move the nerves. He or she opens the disc space, removes the degenerated disc and replaces it with an artificial disc.

Patients are generally encouraged to stand and walk the day after surgery. Rehabilitation exercises are ongoing, and patients can expect improved mobility and decreased pain within weeks or months of the surgery.

Risks of Artificial Disc Replacement

As with any surgery of the spine, there are risks and side effects. Potential complications associated with ADR include:

  • Allergic reaction to implanted materials
  • Implants loosening or moving
  • Nerve or spinal cord injury
  • Infection, either local or bodily
  • Blood flow restrictions or blood clots
  • Reactions to anesthesia
  • Incomplete relief of pain

There is also a risk that the procedure will not be effective for the patient and may not reduce or relieve preoperative symptoms.