Disc Replacement
An active lifestyle and the wear and tear effects of day-to-day living can put a strain on your discs, causing significant pain and discomfort. If you’re looking for ways to alleviate the pain from damaged discs, you may want to explore the benefits of disc replacement surgery at South Florida Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine.
About Disc Replacement Surgery
The intervertebral discs (or simply called ‘discs’) are spongy cushions that separate the bones of your spine. These discs play a vital role in shock absorption and in keeping your vertebrae stable. It also enables your spine to move and rotate, while keeping the bones from rubbing with each other.
Unfortunately, aging and injury can affect the way these discs work. When this happens, you may experience back pain that can limit the things you can do.
At South Florida Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, we have specialists who have years of experience in disc replacement surgery. This procedure may be right for you if:
- The back pain you’re having is caused by one or two discs in your lower spine
- The back pain is not a result of nerve compression or joint disease of the spine
- You’re not extremely overweight
- If this is your first spine surgery
- You don’t have spinal conditions like scoliosis
What can you expect during and after Disc Replacement Surgery?
The procedure is done under general anesthesia, which means you’ll be put to sleep throughout the procedure.
Your spine surgeon will first make an incision on your abdominal area. The organs and blood vessels are ‘pushed’ into the side to gain access to the spine. Once your surgeon gets a clear view of your spine, he removes the damaged disc and replaces it with an artificial one. The artificial replacement can be made of metal or a mix of metal and plastic.
Once this is done, the organs and blood vessels are put back in place and the incision is closed.
You may have to stay in the hospital for a day or two, but you should be able to walk and stand a day after surgery.
To help you get back to your regular activities, you will have to undergo physical therapy. Our physical therapy team will guide you on what exercises and stretches you can do safely while recovering.
If you’re wondering if disc replacement is right for you, request an appointment with one of our spine specialists. Call (772) 288-2400 today.