The device that is implanted into the spine to perform the functions of a normal disc is called an artificial disc, and this process is known as artificial disc replacement. In this process, the surgeon replaces the painful disc with an artificial disc. This surgery may be performed into the lower back section. It is indicated for patients with severe degenerated disc disease.

REQUIRED TEST

Before the procedure starts, there are some tests required:

• CT scan.
• X-ray.
• Provocative discography.
• Magnetic resonance imaging.

PROCEDURE

• A small incision into the abdomen.
• Abdominal organ gently move to the side so that the surgeon can visualize the spine properly.
• Degenerate the disc.
• Implant an artificial disc by using a special instrument (two endplates).
• A bending x-ray after the surgery shows the motion of the artificial disc.

LATEST DISC IMPLANTS

• For the Prodisc-L implant, the polyethylene component is fixed directly to the lower endplates.
• Charite disc implants consist of three separate implant components.
• 2 newer implants—not yet available clinically, but we’ll look into their FDA trials.

RECENT ADVANCE

Pro disc artificial includes:

• Lower plate: Attach to the vertebra below the disc.
• Middle plate: Insert, made of ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene.
• An upper plate: attach to the vertebra above the disc.

These plates are made up of cobalt chromium molybdenum and are sprayed with special titanium plasma that encourages the growth of bones.

BENEFITS

Relieve pain and improved function with the maintenance of some motion.