Lumbar Disc Replacement
What Is Lumbar Disc Replacement?
Lumbar disc replacement is a surgical procedure used to treat damaged or degenerated discs in the lower back (lumbar spine). Instead of fusing the bones together, the damaged disc is removed and replaced with an artificial disc designed to maintain motion in the spine.
The goal of lumbar disc replacement is to relieve pain caused by a damaged disc while preserving flexibility and natural movement in the lower back.
This procedure is most often considered for patients with disc-related pain that has not improved with non-surgical treatment.
At OIBortho, our physicians evaluate and perform advanced spine procedures, including lumbar disc replacement, for patients throughout Middlesex, Monmouth, and Ocean Counties.
When Is Lumbar Disc Replacement Recommended?
Lumbar disc replacement may be recommended when a specific disc is the main source of pain and other treatments have not been successful.
It may be considered for:
- Degenerative disc disease in the lumbar spine
- Chronic disc-related lower back pain
- Single-level disc damage
- Patients without significant spinal instability
- Patients who are not ideal candidates for spinal fusion
- Persistent pain despite physical therapy or injections
Symptoms That May Lead to Surgery
Patients who may be candidates often experience:
- Chronic lower back pain
- Pain that worsens with sitting or bending
- Pain that improves when lying down or changing positions
- Stiffness in the lower back
- Reduced ability to perform daily activities
- Occasional radiating pain into the hips
Symptoms are typically linked to one specific damaged disc.
Causes of Disc Damage
Lumbar disc replacement is used to treat discs that have worn down or become damaged due to:
- Age-related degeneration
- Loss of disc hydration and height
- Repetitive stress on the spine
- Prior disc injury
- Genetic predisposition to disc disease
- Heavy physical labor over time
As discs deteriorate, they can lose their ability to cushion the spine, leading to pain and stiffness.
How the Procedure Works
During lumbar disc replacement:
- A small incision is made in the abdomen
- The damaged disc is carefully removed
- An artificial disc implant is inserted into the disc space
- The implant is positioned to preserve motion between the vertebrae
- The incision is closed and healing begins
Unlike spinal fusion, this procedure is designed to maintain movement at the treated level.
Recovery and What to Expect
Recovery varies depending on the patient and overall health.
Typical recovery may include:
- Hospital stay for short-term monitoring
- Early walking soon after surgery
- Gradual return to daily activities
- Physical therapy to restore strength and mobility
- Improvement in symptoms over several weeks to months
Patients are often encouraged to move early to support healing and mobility.
Risks and Considerations
As with any surgery, lumbar disc replacement carries potential risks, including:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Implant movement or failure (rare)
- Nerve irritation or injury
- Persistent pain
- Need for additional surgery in some cases
A physician will determine whether this procedure is appropriate based on individual anatomy and condition.
Why Choose OIBortho?
OIBortho provides advanced spine care, including motion-preserving procedures like lumbar disc replacement. Our physicians focus on identifying the source of pain and selecting the most appropriate treatment option for each patient.
We proudly serve patients throughout Middlesex, Monmouth, and Ocean Counties with comprehensive orthopaedic spine care close to home.
Call 732-800-9000 to speak with one of our scheduling specialists or click here to schedule online 24/7!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is lumbar disc replacement?
It is a procedure that removes a damaged disc in the lower back and replaces it with an artificial disc to preserve motion.
How is it different from spinal fusion?
Disc replacement preserves movement at the treated level, while fusion permanently joins two bones together.
Who is a candidate?
Patients with single-level disc disease and no major instability may be considered.
How long does recovery take?
Most patients return to light activity within weeks, with continued improvement over time.
Does the artificial disc last forever?
Artificial discs are designed for long-term durability, but long-term outcomes can vary.
Is it better than fusion?
It depends on the patient’s condition. Some patients benefit more from fusion, while others are better candidates for disc replacement.