Benefits of Lumbar Artificial Disc Replacement Compared to Spinal Fusion
This procedure is often most effective for patients whose discomfort stems from one or two deteriorated discs. Benefits include:
- Pain reduction
Many patients experience notable relief from chronic pain linked to disc degeneration.
- Maintained spinal motion
Unlike fusion, which limits movement at the treated level, disc replacement retains a greater range of motion.
- Shorter recovery
Healing tends to be faster than with traditional fusion surgery, enabling a quicker return to daily life.
- Lower chance of additional surgeries
By preserving movement, there’s typically less stress on neighboring spinal levels, reducing the risk of future interventions.
- Enhanced daily function
With reduced pain and increased mobility, many patients resume activities they once had to avoid.
Who is a Candidate for Lumbar Disc Replacement?
While lumbar disc replacement can be highly effective, it’s not right for every patient. At Panorama Orthopedics and Spine Center, board-certified spine specialist Dr. Mark Robinson evaluates each case individually through physical exams, a detailed history, and imaging studies.
Ideal candidates often meet the following criteria:
- Moderate to severe disc degeneration in one or two lumbar spine levels (commonly L3-L4, L4-L5, or L5-S1)
- Pain localized primarily in the lower back, though some leg pain may be present
- Prior non-surgical treatment for at least six months without significant improvement
These guidelines provide a general reference. Dr. Mark Robinson at Panorama Orthopedics and Spine Center will consider your overall condition and imaging results to determine if this approach is suitable.
What to Expect During Lumbar Artificial Disc Replacement
Panorama Orthopedics and Spine Center offers a comprehensive and patient-focused experience to support a successful outcome.
Before Surgery
Your experience begins with an in-depth evaluation. Dr. Robinson will review your symptoms and health history, perform a physical assessment, and order diagnostic tests such as MRI or CT scans to evaluate the discs.
You’ll also receive preparation instructions regarding medications, food intake, and what to expect on the day of surgery.
Surgical Procedure
- You’ll be under general anesthesia to keep you pain-free throughout the procedure.
- A small abdominal incision is used to access the spine. A vascular or general surgeon gently moves soft tissues to safely expose the area.
- Dr. Robinson removes the damaged disc, prepares the space, and inserts a prosthetic disc designed to replicate the function and movement of a healthy one.
- The implant is secured with metal endplates and a polyethylene core, and a fluoroscope (real-time X-ray) confirms proper placement.
- The incision is then closed with sutures and bandaged.
Recovery and Follow-Up
After surgery, you’ll be monitored in recovery. Most patients remain in the hospital overnight. Discomfort is typically manageable with medication.
Rehabilitation often begins early with physical therapy to help restore strength and mobility. You’ll also return for regular follow-ups with Dr. Robinson to ensure steady progress and address any concerns.
Prodisc L Total Disc Replacement
The primary goal of Prodisc L total disc replacement is to restore the spine’s natural movement and to significantly reduce pain.
This is accomplished through the device’s functional mechanism. Pain is alleviated by re-establishing proper disc height, which the implant helps to preserve.
By restoring disc height and removing the damaged disc, compressed nerve pathways are relieved, and the vertebral joints return to their normal anatomical alignment.
Before artificial discs were introduced, spinal fusion was the sole surgical alternative. This procedure involved permanently joining neighboring vertebrae using hardware, bone grafts, or interbody cages.
Prodisc L is designed to retain motion at the impacted disc level and minimize additional stress on the discs nearby.
Our skilled surgical and non-surgical staff will support you throughout the process, promoting a safe procedure and a smooth recovery.