Definition:
- Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR) or Total Disc Replacement (TDR) surgery is performed to treat chronic, severe lower back pain and cervical pain caused by degenerative changes of the spinal disc. The surgery involves replacement of the degenerated intervertebral discs with artificial disc in the lumbar or cervical spine. The procedure is one type of Arthroplasty.
- The FDA approved the use of an artificial disc made by Charite, to replace degenerated spinal disc as a treatment option for chronic back pain in 2004 at United States, How ever, the artificial disc surgery is been performed in Europe for many years. The PRODISC-L had got approval from FDA in 2006.
Advantages and Disadvantages:
Advantages
- Artificial disc replacement is considered as an alternate to spinal fusion surgery to relieve back pain without restricting the movement of whole spine.
- It prevents the premature breakdown of adjacent vertebrae.
- Different clinical studies have showed that compare to spinal fusion, patients are more satisfied with the ADR surgery result.
Disadvantages
- However, the ADR is contraindicated for patients suffering from osteoporosis, joint diseases, and infection and had an allergy to stainless steel.
The long term studies and follow ups are required to fully understand the potential advantages and risk associated with ADR.
