Discectomy with Placement of Artificial Disc

A discectomy with placement of an artificial disc is a surgical procedure designed to treat painful conditions in the spine, particularly those caused by herniated discs or degenerative disc disease. The procedure involves the removal of a damaged or degenerated disc in the cervical or lumbar spine, followed by the insertion of an artificial disc to maintain spinal motion and support. This surgery is an alternative to traditional spinal fusion, offering patients the potential for faster recovery, preserved motion, and reduced risk of future complications.

At the Brain and Spine Center of Texas, our skilled surgeons utilize the latest technology and techniques to perform this procedure with precision and care, providing patients with an effective solution for relieving pain and restoring spinal function.

This procedure may be recommended for patients experiencing:

• Severe neck or back pain caused by a damaged disc.
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs due to nerve compression from a herniated or degenerated disc.
• Loss of motion or stiffness due to spinal disc degeneration.
  Failure to improve with non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, medication, or injections.

Discectomy with artificial disc placement can reduce pressure on the spinal nerves, relieve pain, and improve spinal mobility, allowing patients to return to their normal activities more quickly than with spinal fusion.

The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and typically involves:

1. Accessing the Spine – The surgeon will make a small incision, either at the front (anterior) or back (posterior) of the neck or lower back, depending on the location of the affected disc.
2. Removing the Damaged Disc – The damaged or herniated disc is carefully removed, along with any bone spurs or tissue that may be pressing on the nerves.
3. Placing the Artificial Disc – An artificial disc made from durable materials, such as metal and plastic, is inserted into the disc space to maintain spinal alignment and preserve motion.
4. Closing the Incision – The incision is closed with sutures, and the patient is monitored during their recovery in the hospital.

The entire procedure typically lasts 1 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity of the surgery and the location of the affected disc.

After discectomy with artificial disc placement, patients can expect:

• Short Hospital Stay – Most patients stay 1 to 2 days in the hospital for observation and pain management.
• Pain Management – Post-operative pain will be managed with medications to ensure comfort during the recovery process.
• Physical Therapy – A customized rehabilitation program will be prescribed to restore strength and mobility and encourage spinal healing.
• Activity Restrictions – Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activity, lifting, and bending for several weeks following the procedure.
• Follow-Up Appointments – Regular check-ups to monitor healing and ensure the artificial disc is properly positioned and functioning.

The recovery time can vary, but most patients begin to feel significant pain relief within a few weeks, and full recovery typically occurs within 3 to 6 months.

• Experienced Spine Surgeons – Our team specializes in advanced spine surgeries, including discectomy with artificial disc placement.
• State-of-the-Art Techniques – We use minimally invasive procedures and advanced technologies to provide better outcomes and faster recovery times.
• Comprehensive Care – From pre-surgery consultation to post-operative rehabilitation, we offer a holistic approach to ensure optimal results.
• Patient-Centered Care – Each treatment plan is personalized to meet the specific needs of the patient, ensuring the best possible outcome.