Lumbar disc replacement replaces a damaged or diseased disc in the lower back with an artificial one. Unlike spinal fusion, which eliminates motion at the problem segment, disc replacement aims to maintain or restore mobility, offering a path to pain relief with a potentially quicker recovery for the right candidates.
This procedure is used for the following conditions. Each links to its own page with symptoms and other treatment options.
Also chronic lower back pain not relieved by conservative treatment, and nerve compression in the lumbar spine.
Preparation includes medical evaluations, medication adjustments, stopping smoking, and improving fitness. On the day of surgery:
General anesthesia
You are fully asleep for the procedure.
Anterior approach
An incision, usually through the abdomen, reaches the spine with minimal disruption to the back muscles.
Removing the disc
The damaged disc is removed from the disc space.
Inserting the artificial disc
An artificial disc matched to your anatomy is placed in the space.
Early walking
Patients are encouraged to walk as soon as they are able.
Recovery starts immediately after surgery.
Procedure day
Up and walking
Patients walk as soon as they are able; stays are short and may be outpatient.
First weeks
Gentle activity
Walking and light activity while the incision heals.
Weeks to months
Rehabilitation
Physical therapy strengthens the back and supporting structures, with a return to normal activities.
Lumbar disc replacement removes a damaged or diseased disc in the lower back and replaces it with an artificial disc designed to mimic the form and function of a natural disc.
Spinal fusion eliminates motion at the problem segment. Disc replacement aims to maintain or restore motion, potentially offering a greater range of motion and a quicker recovery.
Candidates typically have chronic lower back pain from degenerative disc disease that has not responded to conservative treatment, without significant spinal instability or deformity.
Under general anesthesia, the surgeon usually approaches the spine through a small incision in the abdomen, removes the damaged disc, and inserts an artificial disc into the space.
Hospital stays are typically short, and in many cases the procedure can be performed on an outpatient basis.
Patients are encouraged to walk as soon as they are able. Physical therapy strengthens the back, with a return to normal activities expected within weeks to months.
Preparation involves a medical evaluation, adjusting medications, quitting smoking, and improving physical fitness. A pre-operative consultation reviews expectations, risks, and recovery.
A thorough evaluation of your history, examination, and imaging determines suitability. Request a free MRI review or call (321) 499-4646.
For the right candidate, lumbar disc replacement may offer:
Both treat a painful, damaged lumbar disc. They differ in whether the segment keeps moving.
Lumbar disc replacement
Motion preserving
An artificial disc mimics a natural one
Spinal fusion
Stabilizing
The segment heals into solid bone
Your surgeon will recommend the option that fits your spine.
Hear our patients share their experience with us, All in their own words.
Expert, ultra-minimally invasive spine and orthopedic care, close to home.
Ultra-minimally invasive and endoscopic techniques
We specialize in procedures performed through incisions smaller than a dime, sparing muscle and supporting a faster recovery.
Same-day, outpatient procedures
Most patients walk in and return home within hours, rather than facing an overnight hospital stay.
Board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeons
Our team includes early leaders in endoscopic spine surgery.
A complimentary MRI review
Understand your diagnosis and options from a board-certified specialist before committing to any treatment.
Trusted by our community
More than 1,100 patient reviews at a 4.6-star average, and over 50,000 patients treated.
Motion-preserving options, not only fusion
For the right candidates, disc replacement relieves pain while keeping the spine moving.
Comprehensive spine and orthopedic care
From injections to advanced procedures, your full continuum of care is handled in one place.
Convenient locations across the Space Coast and Orlando
Care close to home in Melbourne, Orlando (Lake Nona), and Titusville.
