Understanding Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery (ADR)
For many patients experiencing ongoing pain associated with the compression of spinal nerves, disc replacement surgery offers a safe and effective alternative to spinal fusion. At the Spine Institute of New Jersey, we take great pride in evaluating each patient’s unique case and health goals to determine the treatment approach that will offer the highest quality of life moving forward.
As intervertebral discs (the structures between vertebrae that cushion the spine and absorb shocks) become damaged or deteriorate over time, spinal nerve compression can result. Cervical nerve compression is often the root cause of pain throughout the shoulders, arms, and hands while lumbar nerve compression impacts the lower back, hips, buttocks, and legs (sometimes referred to as sciatica). Developing a proactive treatment plan for spinal nerve compression is crucial.
Conservative nerve pain treatment options are always our first step at the New Jersey Spine Institute, but if the pain is persistent and unresponsive over time, a surgical approach will be considered next. Disc replacement surgery offers patients the opportunity to restore the flexibility and mobility of the spine while also alleviating pain and decreasing recovery time (as compared to more traditional surgical approaches). Our renowned duo of surgeons has refined their technique on this innovative procedure many times over with life-changing patient outcomes.
Your initial consultation will include an all-inclusive review of prior conservative and surgical treatment along with a comprehensive physical examination to develop an accurate diagnosis
Conditions Treated With Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery
We are often able to trace neck and back pain, as well as nerve pain throughout the upper and lower extremities, to damaged or deteriorating intervertebral discs. Over the years, we have been honored to witness countless times the positive impact that spinal disc replacement surgery can have on patients living with compressed spinal nerves. Some of the common conditions we treat with this procedure include:
Degenerative Disc Disease
Intervertebral discs begin to break down over time, often resulting in the compression of spinal nerves.
Herniated Disc(s)
One or more discs have become damaged or ruptured due to injury or the degenerative process.
Sciatica
Sciatica refers to irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve in the lumbar spine.
Radiculopathy
Radiculopathy refers to nerve pain caused by the pinching of a nerve in the spine.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Acute trauma or injury to the spine can sometimes be treated with an artificial disc replacement procedure.
Bone Spurs
Bone spurs (osteophytes) are bony growths that form on the vertebrae and can interfere with nerve pathways.
Spinal Stenosis
This condition is characterized by the narrowing of the spinal canal, sometimes leaving insufficient space for nerves.
What To Expect From a Artificial Disc Replacement Procedure
Many of our patients at the Spine Institute of New Jersey are understandably uncertain about what to expect from a disc replacement procedure. Below, we’ve provided a basic overview of the surgery. In addition, patients can fully trust that we will provide detailed pre and post-surgical information and instructions as they prepare to undergo this treatment under our expert care.
Spinal disc replacement surgery typically takes 2-3 hours to complete but may take more or less time depending on the complexity of the case. It is performed by our award-winning surgical team at the state-of-the-art New Jersey Spine Institute clinic on an outpatient basis. After undergoing the procedure, patients return home the same day for recovery.
The steps involved in disc replacement surgery include:
- The patient is positioned on their back and comfortably put to sleep using general anesthesia.
- A small incision is made in the abdomen or neck, depending on the location of the disc being replaced (cervical spine or lumbar spine).
- Structures are gently moved aside to clear a direct path to the spine.
- The damaged disc is carefully removed and the surrounding vertebrae are gently spread apart.
- A metal plate is attached to each of the upper and lower surfaces of the surrounding vertebrae and the artificial disc is inserted between them.
- The incision is closed and bandaged and the patient is awakened.
At the New Jersey Spine Institute, we are with our patients every step of the way and are always available to address questions or concerns as they arise.
Benefits of Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery
The potential benefits of disc replacement surgery are numerous. If our surgical team believes this treatment may be the right option for your needs and circumstances, you could benefit from the following:
Spinal Flexibility and Mobility
One of the outcomes that differentiates disc replacement surgery from many other spinal procedures is the fact that it allows the spine to regain and/or maintain its natural flexibility and mobility. This translates to an improved range of motion and fewer limitations on physical activities over time.
Quick Recovery
As a minimally invasive procedure, disc replacement surgery has a relatively fast recovery period when compared with more traditional spine surgery techniques.
Reduced Spinal Stress
Spinal fusion offers stability, but can also place undue stress on other parts of the spine, which can ultimately lead to further complications. With disc replacement surgery, the disc implant functions similarly to a human intervertebral disc, integrating into the spine’s natural movement patterns and allowing for comprehensive mobility that doesn’t put unnecessary pressure on other parts of the spine.
Reduced Risk of Complications
Minimally invasive techniques are associated with less bleeding, pain, muscle damage, infection, and other complications. Speak directly with your surgeon for specifics.
Recovery After Surgery
Complete recovery after disc replacement surgery usually takes approximately 6-12 weeks, but many patients are able to return to work sooner depending on the nature of their job. At the New Jersey Spine Institute, we work closely with each and every individual patient to provide comprehensive recovery planning and support that ensures a comfortable and streamlined recovery experience from start to finish. We are readily available to answer questions as they arise throughout the recovery process and are wholeheartedly dedicated to seeing our patients thrive as they move forward in life.
If you are experiencing nerve pain in your back, neck, shoulders, arms, hips, or legs that is detracting from your everyday quality of life and has not responded to conservative treatment approaches, disc replacement surgery may be a viable solution. To learn more, call our team at the New Jersey Spine Institute to book a consultation today. We look forward to meeting you!