Artificial Disc Replacement 

Artificial disc replacement is a surgical procedure designed to treat certain types of disc degeneration while preserving movement in the spine. In this procedure, a damaged spinal disc is removed and replaced with an artificial implant that functions similarly to a natural disc. 

Spinal discs normally act as cushions between the vertebrae and allow flexibility of the spine. When discs degenerate due to aging or injury, they can cause chronic pain or nerve compression. 

Symptoms of severe disc degeneration may include: 

• Persistent neck or lower back pain
• Pain radiating into the arms or legs
• Reduced spinal mobility
• Numbness or tingling due to nerve compression 

Traditionally, spinal fusion has been used to treat advanced disc degeneration. Artificial disc replacement provides an alternative option for carefully selected patients. 

Potential advantages include: 

• Preservation of spinal movement
• Restoration of disc height
• Reduced stress on adjacent spinal segments
• Relief from nerve compression symptoms 

Artificial disc replacement is typically considered when the affected spinal segment remains stable and surrounding joints are healthy. Careful evaluation through imaging studies helps determine whether this procedure is appropriate.