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Total Knee Replacement Surgery (TKR) icon

Procedure Name

Lumbar Disc Replacement
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Surgery Type

Open surgery
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Hospital Stay

2-4 Days
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Duration of Surgery

2-3 Hours
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Type of Anaesthesia

General Anaesthesia
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Full Recovery

8-12 Weeks

Overview

Lumbar disc replacement surgery is used to treat severe back discomfort caused by degenerative disc disease or disc herniation in the lumbar spine, which is located in the lower back. It is an alternative to typical spinal fusion surgery, which includes utilizing bone transplants to fuse two vertebrae together.

What is Lumbar Disc Replacement?

Lumbar disc replacement is a surgical technique in which a damaged or degenerative intervertebral disc in the lumbar spine (lower back) is removed and replaced with an artificial disc implant. The purpose of the procedure is to alleviate persistent back pain while also restoring mobility and function to the afflicted region.

The injured disc in the spine is removed and replaced with an artificial disc during lumbar disc replacement. The artificial disc is intended to mirror the natural form and function of a healthy intervertebral disc, providing stability and permitting normal spine movement.

Lumbar disc replacement surgery may have various advantages over spinal fusion surgery. It preserves spine mobility, which can assist lessen stress on the surrounding discs and perhaps lower the chance of disc degeneration. It may also allow for a speedier recovery, with some patients returning to regular activities sooner than fusion surgery.

When is Lumbar Disc Replacement Recommended?

Lumbar disc replacement is often advised when conservative therapy for back pain has been inadequate and there is a specific problem that makes the patient a potential candidate for the surgical procedure. Here are some frequent reasons for lumbar disc replacement:

  • Degenerative disc disease: Lumbar disc replacement might be explored for individuals who have degenerative disc disease in the lumbar spine, where one or more discs have become damaged or worn down. Chronic back discomfort, reduced mobility, and nerve compression can all result from a degenerative disc disease
  • Disc herniation: Lumbar disc replacement may be a possibility for those who have a herniated disc in their lower back. When the outer covering of the disc weakens or breaks, the interior gel-like substance protrudes and potentially compresses the surrounding nerves, causing pain and other symptoms.
  • Failed conservative treatments: When conservative treatments such as physical therapy, pain medicines, and injections have failed to offer sufficient relief or progress in symptoms, lumbar disc replacement may be explored as a surgical alternative
  • Single-level disc disease: Lumbar disc replacement is often advised for individuals who have disc degeneration or herniation at a single level of the lumbar spine. It is less typically used to treat multi-level disc conditions.
  • No significant spinal instability or deformity: Lumbar disc replacement is typically not advised for people who have severe spinal instability or deformity. 

It's crucial to remember that the choice to have lumbar disc replacement surgery depends upon your unique symptoms, the severity of your condition, and your overall health. A comprehensive examination and conversation with a spine surgeon who specializes in disc replacement can help you evaluate whether you are a good candidate for the treatment.

How to Prepare For Lumbar Disc Replacement?

Preparing for lumbar disc replacement surgery entails a number of critical processes that must be followed to guarantee a safe and effective treatment. Here are some broad suggestions to assist you in your preparation:

  • Consultation and evaluation: Make an appointment with a spine surgeon who specializes in lumbar disc replacement. During the consultation, your surgeon will review your medical history, conduct a physical exam, and may request imaging tests (such as X-rays or MRI scans) to determine if you are a good candidate for the surgery.
  • Medical evaluation: Your surgeon may prescribe certain diagnostic tests, such as blood tests, electrocardiograms (ECGs), or other diagnostic assessments, to check your overall health and detect any potential risks or consequences from the procedure.
  • Medications: Inform the surgeon about all of your current medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and supplements Your surgeon will advise you on which medications you should stop or change before surgery, such as blood thinners or anti-inflammatory medications that might raise the risk of bleeding.
  • Smoking cessation: If you are a smoker, it is strongly recommended that you stop smoking before the surgery. Smoking may delay recovery and raise the possibility of complications. Your surgeon may suggest ways to help you quit smoking.
  • Preoperative instructions: In the days preceding the procedure, your surgeon or surgical team will offer precise directions to follow. This may involve diet planing, bathing with a special antibacterial soap, and avoiding certain activities or drugs. You may also be advised to fast for a few hours before the procedure. 
  • Arrange transportation and aftercare: Make arrangements for someone to accompany you to the hospital on the day of the procedure and to take you home afterwards. You may require assistance with daily tasks throughout the early recovery phase, depending on your unique condition.
  • Keep your home ready: Make the necessary changes at home to ensure a quick and smooth recovery. Setting up a pleasant and accessible recuperation room, arranging for help with home tasks or childcare, and storing up groceries and vital supplies are all important measures to follow.
  • Mental and emotional preparation: As surgery can be stressful, it is critical to address any fears or anxiety you may have. Clear any concerns you have, and consider obtaining support from loved ones or professional therapy if necessary.

Remember to follow all of your surgeon's and medical team's directions. Because each patient's preparation may differ depending on their unique condition. It is critical to contact your healthcare specialists and address any concerns or questions you may have before undergoing lumbar disc replacement surgery.

How does Lumbar Disc Replacement work?

Lumbar disc replacement is a surgical technique in which a damaged or degenerative intervertebral disc in the lumbar spine (lower back) is removed and replaced with an artificial disc implant. Here's a step-by-step guide to lumbar disc replacement:

  • Anesthesia: The surgical procedure takes place under general anesthesia, which means you will be unconscious and pain-free during the process.
  • Incision: The surgeon creates an incision in the lower back, usually in the midline. The length of the incision varies depending on the procedure employed and the number of discs replaced.
  • Exposure: The surgeon gently pushes the muscles and tissues aside to gain access to the damaged disc(s) in the spine.
  • Removal of the Damaged Disc: The surgeon will carefully remove the damaged or degenerated disc, taking care not to damage nearby nerves or structures. Various techniques can be used for disc removal, including discectomy, which involves removing the disc material causing nerve compression.
  • Preparation of the Disc Space: After removing the damaged disc, the surgeon will prepare the space for the artificial disc implant. This may involve shaping the bony endplates of the adjacent vertebrae to ensure a secure fit for the implant.
  • Placement of the Artificial Disc: The surgeon will insert the artificial disc implant into the prepared disc space. The implant typically consists of two metallic endplates with a movable core made of medical-grade plastic or metal. The implant is designed to mimic the function of a natural disc, allowing for movement and load-bearing in the spine.
  • Testing and adjustment: The surgeon validates the location of the new disc, its location, and its appropriate functioning. To guarantee appropriate placement, any necessary changes are done.
  • Wound closure: Sutures or staples are used to seal the incision, and a sterile dressing is used to aid healing and avoid infection.

You will be closely observed in the recovery room following surgery before getting transferred to a hospital room. The healthcare team will manage your pain, check your vital signs, and begin a rehabilitation and physical therapy plan.

Lumbar disc replacement seeks to alleviate discomfort, restore stability, and maintain or improve the spine's natural mobility. It is crucial to remember that not all patients are candidates for lumbar disc replacement, and the choice to proceed is dependent on an individual evaluation and conversation with a trained spine surgeon.

What to Expect After Lumbar Disc replacement?

Here's what to expect during the healing phase after lumbar disc replacement surgery:

  • Hospital stay: Typically, you will be admitted to the hospital for a few days following surgery. During this time, the healthcare team will monitor your vital signs, manage your discomfort, and help you get back on your feet.
  • Pain management: Postoperative pain or discomfort at the surgery site is normal. This can be managed with prescribed pain medications. Severe pain that does not subside with medications should be notified to your surgeon. 
  • Physical therapy: Following surgery, you will require physical therapy and rehabilitation. Physical therapy aims to restore lower back strength, flexibility, and mobility. You will be guided through particular exercises and activities by your physical therapist.
  • Gradual increase in activity: As you recover, you will be advised to gradually increase your activity level. Your healthcare team will give you instructions on how to gradually resume everyday tasks like walking, sitting, and lifting while avoiding intense activities or motions that might strain your back.
  • Follow-up appointments: Follow-up appointments will be scheduled with your surgeon at regular intervals to evaluate your progress and assess your recovery. Your surgeon may prescribe imaging tests, like X-rays or MRI scans, at these sessions to check the position and condition of the artificial disc.
  • Returning to regular activities: When you will be able to return to normal activities will be determined by your individual recovery rate as well as the type of your employment. Your surgeon and physical therapist will be able to determine the time period when you will be able to return to your normal activities.
  • Restrictions and precautions: While lumbar disc replacement attempts to restore mobility and function in the spine, there may be certain restrictions or precautions to take into account. It's critical to follow your surgeon's recommendations for activities to avoid or changes to make to safeguard your back and the artificial disc.

It is critical to maintain frequent communication with your healthcare team and to follow their instructions and suggestions throughout the healing process. They will advise you on the best course of action to pursue and will handle any issues or difficulties that may emerge.

What are the Benefits and Risks of a Lumbar Disc Replacement?

Benefits of lumbar disc replacement surgery include:

  • Pain relief: Lumbar disc replacement can provide relief from chronic back pain caused by degenerative disc disease.
  • Improved function: By alleviating back pain, lumbar disc replacement can also improve a person's ability to perform daily activities and engage in physical activity.
  • Reduced dependence on pain medications: With improved pain relief, many patients are able to reduce or eliminate their use of pain medications.
  • Shorter recovery time: Lumbar disc replacement typically requires a shorter recovery time compared to other spinal fusion procedures.

However, as with any surgery, there are also risks associated with lumbar disc replacement. 

Risks of lumbar disc replacement surgery include:

  • Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection.
  • Blood clots: Blood clots can form in the legs after surgery and can be dangerous if they travel to other parts of the body.
  • Nerve damage: There is a risk of nerve damage during the procedure, which can lead to weakness, numbness, or loss of sensation in the legs or feet.
  • Adjacent level degeneration: Over time, the discs above or below the replaced disc may begin to deteriorate, leading to ongoing pain or additional surgeries.
  • Implant failure: There is a small risk that the implant may become loose or break, requiring additional surgery to replace or remove it.

It's important to discuss the benefits and risks of lumbar disc replacement with your doctor, and to carefully consider all options before deciding on surgery. Your doctor can help you weigh the risks and benefits and determine whether lumbar disc replacement is the best option for you.

What is the Prognosis for Lumbar Disc Replacement?

The prognosis for lumbar disc replacement surgery is generally positive, with many patients experiencing significant relief from their back pain and an improvement in their quality of life. However, the specific outcome of the surgery can vary depending on a number of factors, including the underlying cause of the pain, the type of implant used, and the patient's overall health and age.

In most cases, patients can expect to return to normal activities within several weeks to a few months after the surgery. Physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises can also help to promote healing and improve strength and flexibility in the back.

Why Choose Medfin?

Surgery can be a daunting aspect, and feeling anxious is absolutely normal. The massive amount of information you can get from the internet may confuse you even more. This is where Medfin can help. Leave us the hefty task of finding the best hospital, the finest doctor, and the latest procedure at the lowest cost. Let us take charge while you sit back and focus on your health and recovery. Think surgery! Think Medfin! 

The power of Medfin in patient’s words

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“ Got to know about them from my friend. They got an appointment for only 299. Once the doctor confirmed that I needed the surgery they got me a fixed cost which included ALL the costs. No extra amounts were charged. Thank you Medfin”

Suresh Menon Hyderabad 8 days ago
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“ After my consultation with the doctor, MEDFIN representative got me a fixed package cost that included my mothers initial tests, surgery cost. They also gave me stockings free for Rs. 3000 post the surgery. They kept up their promise they made”

Radhika Iyer Mumbai 8 days ago
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“ Thank you Medfin. They ensured the whole process from selecting a very experienced doctor to offering the latest procedure at a very reasonable price. They also arranged a follow up post my surgery with the doctor to ensure my recovery was on track. Thank you for being there throughout”

Deepa Shree Bangalore 8 days ago
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