Back pain can be a real struggle, affecting your daily life and how you feel overall. For many people, it seems like there’s no end to the pain.
If you’re one of those suffering from back pain, you might have heard about two surgeries that could help— spinal fusion surgery and artificial disc replacement.
This blog will explain these options so you can understand them better. Additionally, we will talk about where you can go to determine your eligibility for spine surgery if you are located in Aurora, Colorado.
Understanding Back Pain
Back pain can happen for many reasons, but one common cause is degenerative disc disease. This means the discs between your spine bones wear out over time, causing pain.
Think of these discs as small cushions that absorb shocks and let you bend and twist; when they wear out, your spine doesn’t work as well and it hurts.
What is Spinal Fusion Surgery?
Fusion surgery helps relieve pain by stopping movement at a painful part of your spine. The surgeon connects two or more of your spine bones (vertebrae) together, making a single, solid bone.
This means the painful part doesn’t move anymore, which can reduce pain.
How Fusion Surgery Works
During the surgery, the spine surgeon uses bone grafts, screws, and rods to join the spine bones. Over time, these bones heal and become one solid piece. This can take several months, but it usually results in less pain and better stability.
Pros of Fusion Surgery
- Pain Relief: Many people feel a lot better after they heal from the fusion surgery.
- Proven Success: Fusion surgery has been around for a long time and works well for many people.
Cons of Fusion Surgery
- Less Flexibility: Since the fused part doesn’t move, you might lose some range of motion.
- Long Recovery: Healing from spinal fusion can take several months, and you might need to wear a brace.
- Wear on Nearby Vertebrae: The bones next to the fused section might wear out faster.
What is Artificial Disc Replacement?
Artificial disc replacement is another surgery for back pain due to worn-out discs. Instead of fusing the bones together, the surgeon replaces the damaged disc with an artificial disc, allowing your spine to move properly without pain.
How Artificial Disc Replacement Works
During this surgery, the spine doctor removes the damaged disc and puts in an artificial one made of metal, ceramic, or some other material. The new artificial disc works like a natural disc, letting your spine move normally. This can relieve pain while keeping flexibility.
Pros of Artificial Disc Replacement
- Maintains Flexibility: Unlike fusion surgery, this allows your spine to move naturally and maintains your range of motion.
- Faster Recovery: People often heal quicker compared to fusion surgery.
- Less Wear on Nearby Vertebra: The new disc works like a natural one, so there’s less stress on the vertebrae above and below the artificial disc.
Cons of Artificial Disc Replacement
- Not for Everyone: Some conditions, like severe arthritis, might make this option unsuitable.
- Newer Technology: It’s a newer surgery compared to fusion, so there’s less long-term data.
- Possible Complications: Like any surgery, there are risks like infection or problems with the artificial disc.
Comparing Fusion Surgery and Artificial Disc Replacement
Choosing between these two surgeries depends on various factors. Here’s a closer comparison.
Recovery Time
Recovery time varies for each spine procedure. Fusion surgery often requires a longer healing period, sometimes up to 12 months. On the other hand, artificial disc replacement typically has a shorter recovery time, around 3 to 6 months.
Long-Term Outcomes
Both surgeries aim to reduce pain, but their long-term outcomes differ. Fusion surgery can sometimes lead to additional stress on adjacent vertebrae, potentially causing future issues. Artificial disc replacement aims to preserve natural movement, which can help avoid these problems.
Suitability for Patients
Not everyone is a candidate for every surgery. Factors like age, overall health, and the specific location of the disc problem play a role. It’s crucial to discuss with your spine doctor which option is best suited for your condition.
Artificial Discs in Aurora, CO
If you’re considering artificial disc replacement and want to learn more about whether it’s the right option for you, visit Front Range Spine and Neurosurgery.
Our team of experienced spine specialists offers comprehensive consultations to thoroughly assess your condition and discuss the best treatment options tailored to your specific needs. Our board-certified surgeons have performed numerous successful artificial disc replacement surgeries and spinal fusions.
For further information or to schedule a consultation with our spine surgeon, call today at (303) 790-1800 or use our form to request an appointment. We look forward to serving you!
