It is normal to feel apprehensive about spinal implants. While surgery provides significant relief from pain, it is also a major step that can lead to changes in the patient’s life. Understanding what to expect is key to feeling confident about treatments such as lumbar disc replacement. NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute provides spinal disc replacement for patients at locations in New Jersey, Florida, and Pennsylvania. Here, we explore lumbar disc replacement, levels, devices, and more.
Key Takeaways
- Lumbar disc replacement is a surgical treatment for lumbar herniated discs. It offers better mobility than a spinal fusion, but less stability.
- Disc replacement can be used on any level of the lumbar spine, but it is not recommended for patients with problems at multiple levels.
- Disc replacement comes with some activity restrictions during recovery, but most patients eventually return to full normal activities.
What Is Lumbar Disc Replacement?
Lumbar disc replacement is a surgery to remove a damaged spinal disc and insert an artificial replacement. Each pair of spinal bones, or vertebrae, is separated by a pad of tissue called a spinal disc. The pad features a tough, rubbery exterior surrounding a gel-filled core. If a disc becomes damaged, the gel may leak and put pressure against surrounding tissues. Spinal discs are slow to heal by themselves, so surgical removal is often required.
Disc replacement can be used as an alternative to lumbar spinal fusion. During the latter procedure, the surgeon removes the problematic disc and fills the gap with bone graft material. This fuses the vertebrae into a single strong bone. While fusion relieves pain, it also removes some of the spine’s mobility. In contrast, lumbar disc replacement allows the patient to remain mobile.
Who Is a Candidate for Lumbar Disc Replacement?
Lumbar disc replacement is recommended for patients who are experiencing severe symptoms and a loss of quality of life caused by a spinal disc problem. In most cases, the patient has tried non-invasive treatments and failed to find relief. Their symptoms may include:
- Lower back pain
- Stiffness or loss of movement in the lower back
- Pain that radiates to the buttocks, thighs, and calves
- Tingling or numbness in the legs or feet
- Muscle weakness in the legs or feet
- Loss of bowel or bladder control
A range of conditions may cause these symptoms. A lumbar slipped disc occurs when a damaged disc wall causes the disc to bulge. A lumbar herniated disc is more severe and may feature a full rupture of the disc. Both conditions may cause lumbar myelopathy, or spinal cord impingement.
The patient’s age and overall health are also considerations when deciding whether surgery is the best path. Lumbar disc replacement is typically recommended for younger patients who are active and relatively healthy, other than their disc issue. For these patients, disc replacement lets them stay mobile and active. Older patients and those with severely degraded spines, meanwhile, may benefit more from spinal fusion. Fusion surgery provides better stability than a disc replacement.
Lumbar Levels Commonly Treated
Any spinal disc in the lumbar spine can be treated with lumbar disc replacement. The most common sites for treatment, however, are L3-L4, L4-L5, and L5-S1. That is because these discs are most likely to experience problems by themselves.
Spinal disc replacement is typically performed on patients who only need surgery in one or two levels of the spine. While it is possible to perform multiple replacements at the same time, it is not usually recommended. This is because spines with disc issues at multiple levels often have other issues as well. Bone degradation (osteoporosis), alignment problems, and poor facet joint health can make a lumbar disc replacement less effective, creating a higher risk of failed back syndrome.
Lumbar Disc Replacement Devices
Artificial lumbar discs are made from metal, polymer (plastic), or ceramic. Most devices feature a pair of endcaps that are fitted onto the vertebrae: one above the space where the disc was removed, and one below it. Between the caps is a rounded insert. The entire structure locks together to create an artificial ball-and-socket joint that provides a great range of movement.
Recovery and Restrictions After Lumbar Disc Replacement
As with any other surgery, lumbar disc replacement comes with some early activity restrictions until the site heals. Most patients can go back to work within a week or two, though they should avoid strenuous activities for a little bit longer. The following movements should be avoided:
- Bending
- Lifting
- Twisting
Physical therapy may be recommended to help the patient rebuild their strength and mobility. Most patients are back to their normal activity levels after six to eight weeks. Once completely healed, spinal disc replacements can last for up to 40 years without needing a second surgery.
Learn More About Spinal Disc Replacement Near You in NJ, FL, or PA
If you are struggling with pain caused by a slipped or herniated spinal disc, do not delay relief. Transform your life with a touch of care at NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute, where we provide state-of-the-art treatments for all spine conditions. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment at one of our New Jersey, Florida, and Pennsylvania locations.
Lumbar Disc Replacement FAQ
Does lumbar disc replacement require a hospital stay?
Yes, patients typically stay at the hospital for a few days following a lumbar disc replacement.
What lifestyle habits can keep my spine healthy?
You can keep your spine healthy by exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, using good posture, and avoiding smoking.
Does lumbar disc replacement eliminate pain completely?
While lumbar disc replacement may significantly reduce your pain, it does not remove pain completely.