Artificial disc surgery is an exciting yet complex procedure that offers hope for relief from chronic back or neck pain for those suffering from severe degenerative disc disease. While much has been studied about the short-term outcomes of artificial disc replacement and its potential for restoring motion and reducing pain, the long-term implications are still unfolding.
As more patients pass the 5-, 10-, or even 15-year mark since their surgery, we gain valuable insights into how the procedure ages and whether those initial benefits are sustained.
Let’s explore the basics of artificial disc replacement surgery and what you can expect in terms of long-term outcomes after undergoing it.
The Basics of Artificial Disc Surgery
Artificial disc surgery, also called total disc replacement, is a procedure that replaces a damaged spinal disc with an artificial one. The spinal disc acts as the cushion between the vertebrae in the spine, and when it degenerates or herniates, it can result in severe back or neck pain and decreased mobility.
Artificial disc surgery aims to alleviate these symptoms and restore more natural motion to your spine. This procedure can sometimes be an alternative to spinal fusion surgery, which eliminates motion from the damaged joint but can lead to additional strain on the spine.
Understanding the Procedure
The artificial disc replacement surgery begins with an incision in your back or neck, then carefully extracting the damaged disc. The artificial disc is then inserted into the space between the vertebrae, maintaining or restoring the distance between them and possibly the natural curvature of the spine in that area.
The expectation is that the artificial disc will provide the necessary cushioning for the spine and allow for movement.
Immediately After Surgery
The initial recovery phase after artificial disc surgery is crucial and primarily focused on healing and rehabilitation.
You will typically remain in the hospital for a few days after surgery. During this time, the medical team will manage your pain, and you can begin moving around with assistance. Physical therapy may start in the hospital, with simple exercises and movements to aid in your recovery.
Once you are discharged, home recovery will center around rest and restriction of strenuous activities. You may need to wear a special brace to support your back. Your spine doctor will provide a detailed plan for managing pain and any activity limitations. It’s essential to follow these instructions closely to promote proper healing.
You will find that each week brings improvement. By the end of the first month, you should be able to move around independently but with care, avoiding bending or lifting anything heavy.
Short walks and continued physical therapy exercises are part of strengthening your back and core muscles.
Long-Term Outcomes
Here are some long-term outcomes of artificial disc surgery.
Pain Management
The primary long-term benefit of artificial disc surgery is pain relief. For many individuals, this means a substantial reduction in the chronic back pain that previously affected their daily lives.
The artificial disc reduces the compression on nerve roots, which is often the cause of localized pain and the sciatica that radiates down the legs.
Recovery isn’t immediate in the long-term pain management aspect, and some patients experience residual discomfort due to the surgery and general recovery process. However, as time progresses, many patients report a significant improvement in their pain and quality of life.
Mobility Improvements
One key benefit of artificial disc surgery is the potential for enhanced mobility. Unlike spinal fusion, disc replacement doesn’t eliminate the spine’s natural motion; it merely adjusts the mechanics to prevent pain.
This can result in a more flexible and active lifestyle, with some patients reporting a return to full range of motion in the months following surgery.
Physical therapy is crucial in recovering and enhancing mobility after disc replacement surgery. Patients will work on exercises that strengthen the core and back muscles, further supporting the spine and the implanted disc. Building a robust musculature helps stabilize the spine and maintain the newfound mobility.
Lower Risk of Additional Surgeries
Artificial disc replacement surgery carries a lower risk of additional surgeries than other techniques. This is because it addresses the root cause of the issue, the degenerated disc, rather than merely managing the symptoms.
As a result, patients experience long-term relief without repeated interventions.
Artificial Disc in Colorado Springs, CO
At Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery, we have a team of highly trained and exceptionally skilled neurosurgeons and orthopedic surgeons who are committed to providing innovative solutions for a variety of spinal conditions.
Artificial disc replacement surgery performed by our spine surgeons offers promising long-term outcomes, including significant pain relief, preserved motion and flexibility, and a lower risk of additional surgeries. This means you can look forward to an improved quality of life and a quicker return to your daily activities.
For more information or to schedule a consultation with our spine surgeon, call us today at (303) 790-1800 or fill out our online appointment request form today. We look forward to serving you!
