Disc Replacement Surgery in Philadelphia, PA
Facing chronic and incapacitating back or neck pain can be an incredibly distressing predicament for anyone. Statistics show lower back pain is quite prevalent in the United States. 75% to 85% of Americans will grapple with this problem at some point in their lives. However, the good news is that most cases do not persist after getting proper treatment, no matter if you’re experiencing pain from a herniated disc or a severe degenerative disc disease.
When this happens, the best course of action is disc replacement surgery in Philadelphia, PA. Also known as artificial disc replacement or total disc replacement, our specialists at NJ Spine & Orthopedic perform this procedure to alleviate chronic back pain and other related symptoms caused by damaged or degenerated spinal discs.
The Causes and Impact of Disc Degeneration
The spinal discs are soft, gel-like cushions between the vertebrae of the spine. Their main function is to absorb shock and provide flexibility to the spine. Disc degeneration arises from a combination of factors contributing to spinal disc deterioration. The natural aging process is a significant cause, as discs lose water content and become less flexible over time. Genetic predisposition can also render certain individuals more susceptible to early disc degeneration.
Lifestyle choices like a sedentary lifestyle, excessive weight, and smoking may also hinder disc health. On the other hand, injuries and trauma can expedite degeneration, especially in jobs involving repetitive heavy lifting or twisting. Medical conditions, such as arthritis and inflammatory disorders, further impact spinal health, culminating in the degenerative process.
How Can Disc Degeneration Affect Your Life?
The repercussions of disc degeneration are far-reaching and can profoundly affect a person’s daily life. Chronic back and neck pain stemming from this problem often becomes a persistent hurdle, which can severely diminish the quality of life. The pain may radiate into the extremities for most patients, leading to additional discomfort. Mobility becomes restricted as the discs lose their shock absorption ability and flexibility.
Consequently, individuals also often struggle to perform routine activities. They may be unable to engage in the physical pursuits they once enjoyed. The emotional toll of chronic pain and reduced mobility results in distress and adversely impacts their mental well-being. Surgical intervention is necessary to remedy this health condition and improve the patient’s quality of life.
Why Disc Replacement Surgery in Philadelphia, PA May Be Necessary
We understand that no one wants to go through an operation, but sometimes the circumstances demand it. For instance, if conservative treatments like physical therapy, injections, and medication fail to help treat acute disc degeneration or herniation cases, you may need disc replacement surgery. This offers you or your loved one a chance to enjoy a better quality of life. During this surgical procedure, the surgeon identifies and removes the affected disc, replacing it with an artificial metal disc.
Unlike spinal fusion, which permanently fuses two vertebrae, disc replacement surgery aims to maintain the natural motion of the spine. It potentially minimizes stress on adjacent discs and improves movement.
Understanding the Factors Behind Disc Replacement Eligibility
Not all patients are suitable candidates for disc replacement surgery. One major determinant is the severity of disc damage. Patients with extensively damaged discs or substantial degeneration of surrounding structures may not be ideal candidates. This is because such an issue causes instability in the spine, and disc replacement may not provide enough stability. In fact, more comprehensive spinal fusion procedures may be required to address the unsteadiness. Alignment and stability of the spine are other critical factors we consider.
For disc replacement surgery in Philadelphia, PA to succeed, the spine must have sufficient steadiness and proper positioning to support the artificial disc. Patients with notable spinal misalignments or complex deformities might not qualify for this procedure. Your doctor may consider alternative surgical interventions to address these issues. Moreover, the artificial disc is typically anchored into the adjacent vertebral bodies. Patients with significantly compromised bone quality, like those with severe osteoporosis, may not have enough bone strength to adequately support the implant.
Are There Risks of Disc Replacement Surgery?
Like any other surgical procedure, disc replacement surgery in Philadelphia carries some risks. Infection is a potential complication that can occur at the surgical site and may require further treatment. During the surgery, nearby nerves or blood vessels could also be damaged, leading to temporary or permanent complications. All these issues, including wear and tear, could necessitate additional surgery.
Another concern is the potential acceleration of adjacent disc degeneration due to increased stress on nearby segments. Patients may also experience a limited range of motion with the artificial disc compared to a healthy natural disc.
Consult Experienced Philadelphia Disc Replacement Specialists at NJ Spine & Orthopedic Today
Spine problems can lead to chronic pain, limited mobility, and diminished overall functionality. Where conservative treatments have failed, replacement disc surgery can succeed. If you are seeking expert care for your back or spine-related concerns, look no further than NJ Spine & Orthopedic.
Our team of experienced back specialists offers high-quality and personalized treatment options to help you find relief. Whether you’re dealing with chronic back pain or spinal conditions, we have the expertise and resources to meet your needs. We can help evaluate your medical records to determine the best treatment, and our Concierge Team can help streamline your treatments. Schedule a consultation or learn more about our services by completing our contact form or calling us at (866) 553-0612.