Back Surgery: Lumbar Disc Replacement

by Mr Jwalant S Mehta//Back Pain

Pain in the lower back can be severe such that it prevents individuals from fulfilling daily personal and professional responsibilities. The lumber disc is in the spine and serves as a cushion between the bones of the lower back. When these discs wear out, the pain can be unrelenting. This article discusses an overview of lumber disc replacement and its potential benefits.

What is Lumber Disc Replacement

Imagine your spine as a stack of blocks with cushioning between each block. The cushion helps the bones from grinding against each other and allows you to bend, twist, and move. When one of these discs is damaged due to age, injury, or wear and tear, it can lead to pain, stiffness, and even numbness in the legs.

The back surgery for lumbar disc replacement involves removing the damaged disc and replacing it with an artificial one designed to mimic the natural motion of the spine.

How does the Surgery Work?

  • Pre-Surgery Prep: The doctors will run a series of tests like X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to confirm that the damaged disc is the cause of your pain.
  • Surgery: You would be put under general anaesthesia. The surgeon will make a small incision in your abdomen to access the spine. The reason they cut through the front and not the back is to avoid disrupting important back muscles. Then, the damaged disc is carefully removed, and the artificial disc which is usually made of metal or plastic. The entire procedure typically takes two to three hours.
  • Post Surgery: After surgery, you would stay in the hospital for a day or two while the medical team monitors your recovery.

Benefits of Lumbar Disc Replacement

Lumbar disc replacement

  • Relieves Chronic Back Pain: When the damaged disc is replaced, the pressure on the surrounding nerves is relieved. It would lead to a significant reduction or complete elimination of pain.
  • Restores Natural Mobility: Unlike spinal fusion, which fuses two vertebrae and limits movement, lumbar disc replacement preserves the natural motion of the spine. The artificial Disc works like the natural Disc and allows you to bend, twist, or move freely.
  • Improved Quality of life: Chronic back pain affects all round life. With the disc replacement, you can go back to enjoying all your favourite activities—jogging, dancing or even gardening.

Are There Any Risks?

No surgery is without risks, and it is essential to be aware of potential downsides. Complications could include infection, nerve damage, or problems with the artificial disc itself, like loosening or wear over time.

 

It is also worth noting that lumbar disc replacement is not for everyone. For people with osteoporosis(bone disease), severe arthritis or multiple damaged discs, your doctor may recommend a different treatment option for you. This is why, in searching for a spinal deformity specialist doctor UK, you should be sure to pick the best one.

Conclusion

While no surgery is without risks, the benefits of lumber disc replacement cannot be ignored. Whether you’re contemplating getting back to work, continuing your favourite hobbies, or simply going about your day pain-free, this procedure might be the step closer to what you want. Consult your doctors to see whether this back surgery is a good fit for you. To get the best treatment and care, connect with Mehta Spine, today.