Lumbar Disc Replacement

What Is a Lumbar Disc Replacement?

Lumbar disc replacement is a lower back surgery performed to remove a damaged spinal disc and replace it with a synthetic one. The bones in the spine, called vertebrae, are separated by pads of rubbery tissue known as spinal discs. These pads cushion the spine, allowing it to flex without friction. If a disc becomes damaged, chronic pain may result. This type of pain often cannot be resolved without surgery.

Lumbar disc replacement is a less-invasive alternative to spinal fusion that allows for a shorter recovery period, letting patients get back to normal activities sooner. Additionally, it does not limit the patient’s mobility afterward like spinal fusion does. For this reason, disc replacement is often preferred by patients and surgeons alike.

Why Receive a Lumbar Disc Replacement?

Lumbar disc replacement is recommended when a lumbar disc can no longer fulfill its function. Damaged discs no longer provide sufficient cushioning between vertebrae and may also bulge into the spinal cavity, putting pressure on the spinal cord. This results in symptoms such as:

• Lower back pain
• Sciatica, or burning pain that radiates to the buttocks, thighs, and calves
• Tingling sensations or numbness in hands or feet
• Muscle weakness in the legs or feet
• Pain that gets worse when standing or walking
• Loss of bowel or bladder control

These symptoms may be mild or debilitating and can arise from various conditions related to the spinal discs. Common causes include:

• Lumbar herniated disc
• Lumbar slipped disc
• Lumbar degenerative disc disease
• Lumbar radiculopathy
• Lumbar myelopathy

These conditions do not resolve on their own. Fortunately, reliable treatments exist. If a person is struggling with pain and symptoms that may be caused by a spinal disc condition, they should speak with a healthcare provider. Surgery may provide lasting relief and a return to normal function.

Who Performs Lumbar Disc Replacement at NU-Spine?

At NU-Spine, all procedures, including lumbar disc replacement, are performed by Branko Skovrlj, MD. Dr. Skovrlj is a world-renowned surgeon who has received multiple awards and accolades for his contributions to medical research. He is also one of the few board-certified neurosurgeons in New Jersey who focuses solely on the spine. Though he has expertise in all forms of spine surgery, he emphasizes minimally invasive methods as the best way to achieve positive treatment outcomes.

Although he is known worldwide, Dr. Skovrlj has not relinquished his small-town values. He remains down-to-earth and approachable, taking the time to establish a rapport with patients before treatment begins. This helps patients feel more confident in the care he provides.

How Is Lumbar Disc Replacement Done?

Before the procedure, Dr. Skovrlj will provide instructions to prepare. These may include avoiding food or drink beforehand or pausing certain medications. Patients should be careful to follow his directions to avoid potential complications. On surgery day, Dr. Skovrlj asks the patient to remove their clothes and put on a hospital gown. The patient then lies down on an operating table. Dr. Skovrlj administers general anesthesia, which keeps the patient asleep through all steps of the procedure:

1. Dr. Skovrlj makes a tiny incision in the skin.
2. He carefully inserts a tiny camera into the incision. The camera provides a video feed to guide his tools, allowing precise work without requiring a large incision.
3. Using the camera’s guidance, Dr. Skovrlj performs a discectomy to remove the damaged disc.
4. He then inserts an artificial disc made of durable, medical-grade composite material.
5. He closes the incision and dresses it with sterile bandages.

From start to finish, the surgery takes two to three hours. Afterward, the patient is taken to a recovery room. Experienced medical staff monitor the patient until they wake up from anesthesia. The patient is then taken to a hospital room, where they will spend the first few days of recovery.

Recovery After Lumbar Disc Replacement

Once cleared to leave the hospital, the patient receives recovery guidance from Dr. Skovrlj. This is to make sure recovery is successful with no complications. Patients should make sure they understand all instructions, which may include:

• Protecting the incision site with a surgical dressing
• Avoiding activities that involve heavy lifting
• Taking medications to manage pain
• Monitoring the incision for signs of infection
• Scheduling a follow-up appointment

Dr. Skovrlj will also guide patients through a gradual return to normal activities. Most patients can resume light activities, like driving, within a week or two after surgery. Physical therapy may then be recommended to help the person rebuild strength in the lower back. Though full recovery times vary between individuals, most patients are back to normal activity levels after six weeks.

Outcomes of Lumbar Disc Replacement

Though a complete recovery takes several weeks, most patients feel relief immediately after surgery. Any nerve pain caused by the herniated disc is eliminated completely. Pain from the procedure gradually decreases over the course of recovery. Once the patient has healed, they should experience no more discomfort from the damaged disc.

Find Lumbar Disc Replacement Near You in New Jersey

If you or a loved one is experiencing neck pain, don’t wait to transform your life with a touch of care. Experience the cutting edge in minimally invasive spine treatments, including lumbar disc replacement, at NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute. Don’t wait for relief; schedule your appointment with our spine experts today and take the first step toward a pain-free future. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment at one of our locations near you in New Jersey.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lumbar Disc Replacement

What does lumbar disc replacement involve?

Lumbar disc replacement involves removing a damaged spinal disc and then replacing it with a medical-grade implant.

When is lumbar disc replacement recommended?

Lumbar disc replacement is the preferred surgical treatment for herniated discs in the lower back. It is most often recommended for patients who experience severe, debilitating pain or whose pain does not respond to conservative treatments such as medications, injections, or physical therapy.

Is lumbar disc replacement effective at relieving pain?

Lumbar disc replacement has a high rate of success. It immediately eliminates all nerve pain caused by a herniated disc, allowing patients to get back to the activities they love.

What is minimally invasive surgery?

Minimally invasive surgery is a type of procedure that uses advanced tools to work through a smaller incision. This method avoids cutting through nerves and muscles, therefore reducing surgical stress. Minimally invasive procedures come with a range of benefits, including less pain, less risk of complications, and a faster, easier recovery.