Artificial discs are man-made spinal discs that replace the damaged or worn-out discs ofthe spine. These are made of bio-grade plastic, metal, or other materials and are used to fix disc-related issues.
The use of prosthetic discs was first approved in 2006 by the United States Food and Drug Administration, and since then, these discs have been employed to treat several spine and back problems.
Let’s discuss the types of artificial discs, what conditions they can treat, the eligibility criteria for artificial discs, and the benefits of having artificial discs.
Types of Artificial Discs
There are different types of artificial discs available that differ based on their shape, size, and height to achieve the desired goal and produce exceptional outcomes. Commonly, artificial discs are made of strong and corrosion-resistant materials, like polyethylene, titanium, stainless steel, and cobalt-chrome.
Based on the designs, artificial discs, especially cervical discs, can be of bearing types and articulation types. The parts of the bearing typemaybe constrained(fused), semi-constrained, and unconstrained (independent), while the parts of articulation-type discs may be mechanically connected using the ball and socket or saddle articulation method.
What Conditions Artificial Discs Can Treat?
Artificial discs can treat a wide range of conditions that damage spinal discs and impair the functions and mobility of the spine. These include:
Degenerative Disc Disease
This is one of the most common diseases treated with artificial disc replacement. Degenerative disc disease results in the deterioration of the discs in the spine, leading to spinal pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Degenerative disc diseases are more common in people over the age of 40 and result from normal age-related wear and tear.
Herniated Discs
Herniated discs are when the outer layer of the disc structures ruptures and causes the inner material or layer to bulge out, putting pressure on the nerves passing nearby. A slipped or herniated disc can lead to significant pain, numbness, and weakness.
Spondylolisthesis
This is the spine condition in which one of the vertebrae (bone of the spine)slips out of its place and puts pressure on the nearby nerves.
Who Is a Candidate for Artificial Disc?
An artificial disc is a suitable option for an individual who:
- Fails to find adequate relief from non-surgical treatment options like rest, ice, prescription medicines, and physical therapy.
- Do not have significant facet joint disease.
- Do not have bony compression on nerves.
- Have a healthy spine with no deformities like scoliosis, kyphosis, and lordosis.
- Have a healthyweight.
- Do not have undergone prior major spine surgery.
- Have significant pain coming from a damaged spinal disc.
An artificial displacement surgeon can consider various factors, including your age, overall health, and extent of the damage, to your spine to determine an individual’s suitability for artificial discs.
Benefits of Artificial Discs
Artificial discs offer numerous benefits for those who have damaged or worn-out discs. They can improve mobility and function of the spine,allowing an individual to return to their normal activities with minimal pain or discomfort.
Furthermore, artificial discs are designed to preserve spine motion and reduce the risk of adjustment-level diseases. Artificial disc replacement is also safe and typically hasa faster recovery period.
Artificial Disc in Lone Tree, CO
If you think you are a candidate for artificial disc and are looking for a highly trained and skilled neurosurgeon who can determine your candidacy for artificial disc replacement surgery, visit us here at Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery. Our neurosurgeon will thoroughly assess your spine condition and determine the candidacy for artificial discs. Theyalso use state-of-the-art tools and techniques to perform artificial discreplacement procedures with exceptional outcomes.
If you would like to know more about artificial discs or want to schedule a consultation with our neurosurgeons, use this secure online form or call us at (303) 790-1800.
