Back pain can be a constant hurdle, disrupting daily life and making even simple tasks feel overwhelming. For those searching for lasting relief, innovative solutions like artificial disc replacement are offering new hope.
This cutting-edge treatment is designed to address specific spinal issues while helping patients avoid more invasive surgeries. But is it right for you?
Let us discuss what artificial discs are, how they work, and who might benefit most from this advanced approach to spinal care.
What Are Artificial Discs
Artificial discs are medical devices designed to replace damaged spinal discs. These synthetic discs restore movement and reduce pain in the spine. They consist of metal plates with a plastic core that mimics natural disc function.
Natural spinal discs act as cushions between vertebrae. They allow your spine to bend and move freely. When these discs become damaged, they can cause severe pain and limit movement.
Artificial discs aim to preserve natural spine movement. This differs from spinal fusion, which eliminates movement between vertebrae. The artificial disc procedure involves removing the damaged disc and inserting the replacement device.
Who Might Be a Candidate for Artificial Discs
Not everyone with back pain qualifies for artificial disc replacement. Spine specialists evaluate specific criteria when considering this treatment option.
Age Requirements
Most artificial disc candidates are between 18 and 65 years old. Younger patients typically have better healing capacity and longer life expectancy. This matters because artificial discs may eventually wear out and need replacement.
Older patients might have other spine conditions that make artificial discs unsuitable. Your spine specialist will consider your age alongside other health factors.
Disc Location
Artificial discs work best in specific areas of the spine. The lumbar spine (lower back) and cervical spine (neck) are common treatment locations. These areas have good blood supply and appropriate anatomy for artificial disc placement.
The thoracic spine (middle back) rarely receives artificial discs. This area has different anatomy and movement patterns that make artificial discs less suitable.
Pain Duration and Severity
Candidates typically experience chronic spine pain for at least six months. This pain should significantly impact daily activities and quality of life. Conservative treatments like physical therapy and medications should have failed to provide adequate relief.
Your pain should primarily come from the damaged disc itself. Other sources of pain, such as nerve compression or muscle problems, might require different treatments.
Disc Degeneration Patterns
Artificial discs work best for single-level disc degeneration. This means one disc shows significant damage while surrounding discs remain relatively healthy. Multiple damaged discs might require different treatment approaches.
The damaged disc should maintain some height and structure. Completely collapsed discs may not provide adequate support for artificial disc placement.
Medical Conditions That May Disqualify You
Several health conditions can prevent you from receiving artificial discs. Your spine specialist will carefully review your medical history before recommending this procedure.
Spinal Infections
Active infections in the spine make artificial disc placement dangerous. Infections can spread to the artificial device and cause serious complications. Your spine specialist will ensure no active infections exist before surgery.
Previous spinal infections may also affect candidacy. Scar tissue from old infections can make surgery more difficult and increase the complication risks.
Severe Osteoporosis
Weak bones cannot adequately support artificial discs. Osteoporosis causes bone density loss that may lead to device failure. Your spine specialist will evaluate bone quality through imaging studies and possibly bone density tests.
Mild osteoporosis may not disqualify you completely. Your doctor will consider bone quality alongside other factors when making treatment recommendations.
Autoimmune Disorders
Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can affect healing and increase infection risk. Some autoimmune disorders also cause spinal inflammation that may interfere with artificial disc function.
Your spine specialist will work with your rheumatologist to determine if artificial discs are appropriate for your specific condition.
Severe Spinal Deformity
Significant spinal curves or alignment problems may prevent proper artificial disc placement. Scoliosis, kyphosis, or other deformities can alter spine mechanics and affect device function.
Mild deformities might not eliminate candidacy. Your spine specialist will evaluate the severity and impact of any spinal abnormalities.
Risks and Limitations
Like all surgical procedures, artificial disc replacement carries risks and limitations. Your spine specialist will discuss these thoroughly before recommending surgery.
Device Wear and Failure
Artificial discs may wear out over time, especially in younger patients. Device failure could require additional surgery to replace or remove the artificial disc. Long-term durability studies continue to evaluate device lifespan.
Infection Risk
All spinal surgeries carry infection risks. Infections involving artificial discs can be serious and may require device removal. Your surgical team takes extensive precautions to minimize this risk.
Nerve Injury
Surgery near the spine carries the risk of nerve damage. This could cause weakness, numbness, or persistent pain. Experienced spine surgeons have low complication rates, but risks cannot be eliminated completely.
Artificial Discs in Colorado Springs, CO
Determining whether you are a candidate for artificial discs requires expert evaluation by a qualified spine specialist. The team at Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery has extensive experience in advanced spinal treatments, including artificial disc replacement.
Our skilled neurosurgeons use the latest diagnostic techniques to evaluate your condition thoroughly. We work with you to develop personalized treatment plans that address your specific needs and goals.
Schedule your consultation by calling us at (303) 790-1800 or use our appointment request form to learn more about your treatment options and take the first step toward lasting pain relief.
We look forward to serving you!
