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What’s a disc replacement surgery?

A disc replacement surgery is a type of back surgery that involves two processes – removing the damaged discs and replacing them with one made of metal or a combination of metal and plastic.

Who is it for?

During your consultation, your doctor will assess your condition and determine if the disc replacement surgery can benefit you.

This procedure may be right for you if:

– You’re not extremely overweight
– You haven’t had spinal surgery before
– You don’t have other spinal conditions such as scoliosis, a joint disease in your spine, or nerve compression
– Your back pain is caused by one or two discs in your lower spine

What can you expect during and after it?

Disc replacement surgery is typically performed in the hospital, under general anesthesia. Your surgeon will make a small incision in your abdominal area. Your organs and blood vessels will be moved to the side, to allow access to your spine. Your surgeon will then remove the damaged disc and put the artificial one in place. Your organs and blood vessels will be put back in place and the incision will be closed.

You may need to stay in the hospital for a day or two, but you should be able to stand and walk a day before surgery.

Physical therapy is needed after your surgery. Our physical therapy team will guide you with the stretches and exercises, to help you bounce back after the surgery.

You may be recommended to avoid jolting or jarring movements for quite a while. Depending on your general health and condition, full recovery may take a few weeks to a few months.

If you’re wondering if disc replacement surgery is right for you, request an appointment with one of our doctors.