There was a time when spinal fusion surgery was the only option provided to patients with chronic spinal pain. While fusion helps, it does have a disadvantage – it may limit the movement and flexibility of the spine.
Today, artificial discs are used by spine surgeons to replace worn or damaged spinal discs and preserve the stability and flexibility of the spine, all while addressing the pain that is caused by herniated or bulging discs. Moreover, there are now more types of artificial discs for different applications.
Here, we talk about the different types of artificial discs used in artificial disc replacement, and where you can go in Denver to find out if you are a good candidate for this surgery.
Most Used Types of Artificial Discs
Some of the commonly used artificial discs in spinal disc replacement include:
ProDisc
ProDisc features both ball-and-socket and two-plate designs, with a fixed center of rotation. It allows multi-axial motion, mimicking the natural movement of the spinal discs, and is often used in patients with degenerative disc disease or severe disc herniation in the lower spine.
Charité
Charité is one of the earliest artificial disc brands. The discs have a weight-bearing, ball-and-socket design. It was one of the first artificial discs to gain FDA approval for use in patients with degenerative discs in the lumbar region of the spine.
Mobi-C
Mobi-C is used in the cervical region of the spine, preserving stability and motion in the neck. It features a self-adjusting mobile bearing technology that allows controlled motion. Mobi-C discs are composed of metal and a plastic (polyethylene) insert in the middle and are often used in patients with degenerative disc disease.
Prestige LP
Prestige LP is a hinged artificial disc designed with a proprietary blend of titanium ceramic composite material, providing the advantage of less wear and tear over time and allowing for flexion and extension movement of the neck. The artificial disc provides controlled motion in patients with degenerative disc disease and cervical disc herniations.
activL
activL is a dynamic artificial disc that is designed with two end plates made with mixed metal and a plastic insert in between that allows for front to back movement, preserving movement and offering shock-absorbing properties. It is commonly used in patients with degenerative disc disease in the lumbar region of the spine.
Simplify
Comprising two plastic (PEEK) end plates coated with a titanium plasma spray and a ceramic core material, this design enables precise anatomical visualization on MRI scans. This design also allows for enhanced bone growth and fusion, promoting a more stable and biomechanically supportive environment around the implant.
Simplify discs are used in the cervical region of the spine.
M6
The M6 artificial disc implant is a revolutionary advancement in spinal disc replacement technology, designed to emulate the natural biomechanics of a healthy human disc. It features a central nucleus pulposus, annular fibers, and outer endplates. The discs restore spinal flexibility and shock absorption, unlike other traditional rigid implants. Their unique construction allows for natural multi-axial motion, reducing the risk of adjacent segment degeneration and promoting quicker postoperative recovery.
Consulting with a spine specialist or neurosurgeon is crucial to determine your eligibility for artificial disc replacement, as well as the most suitable artificial disc for you.
Spine Surgeon in Denver, Colorado
Dr. Michael Rauzzino is our board-certified spine surgeon at Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery. He will let you know about your treatment options for chronic spine pain and put you on the road to recovery. Dr. Rauzzino makes the latest advances in artificial disc implants available to his patients and provides outstanding spinal care. To schedule an appointment, call our office today at (303) 790-1800 or use our online request form.
