Artificial disc replacement surgery is done to replace a damaged disc in the spine with a man-made device called a spinal fusion implant. Discs are made up of soft jelly-like structures that can be damaged if proper care is not taken. A damaged disc loses its ability to absorb shocks and can also cause pain in your arms and hands.
Who Qualifies for Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery?
Artificial disc replacement surgery may be recommended for people who have degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, or other conditions that can cause back and neck pain. This surgery is considered a last resort for some patients who have failed other treatments such as physical therapy, medications, and chiropractic care.
For Detailed Reading: Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery: All You Need to Know!
The procedure of Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery
In this procedure, your surgeon makes a small incision in your back and removes some bone from each side of your spine to make room for an artificial disc replacement device that will be inserted into place between two vertebrae in your spine. The device has grooves or threads on its outside surface that allows it to be secured in place with screws or rods inserted into holes drilled into the vertebrae above and below the damaged disc space.
Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery Rehabilitation
After artificial disc replacement surgery, you will usually stay at the hospital for one to two days. The whole time you will be monitored closely and receive medications to treat pain. You may also receive antibiotics if there is concern about infection or complications from your operation.
When you are released from the hospital, your doctor will give you specific instructions for your recovery period at home. You may need to use crutches temporarily until your leg has healed enough for you to walk without them. Your doctor may also advise against driving until your leg is fully healed.
Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery Recovery Process
Following the surgery in the first few weeks, you can expect to work with a therapist for the strengthening of your back muscles. These exercises will also help you reduce stiffness and discomfort after surgery.
You should expect some pain after artificial disc replacement surgery, but it should gradually subside over time as the body heals. You may also experience stiffness in your neck or back during this initial period following surgery due to muscle spasms and tension around the surgical site. Some patients may find relief using heat therapy or other methods during this period until their
See a Doctor in Los Angeles
If you are in Los Angeles, we would recommend you to see Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe at Southern California Brain & Spine Surgery. You can read reviews given by her patients on websites like Yelps and Healthgrades. You can rely on her for top-quality spine treatment. Visit their website and get in touch right away.
