Spinal Disc Replacement - Process

An artificial spinal disc consists of three components: two oval base and cover plates, which are attached to the vertebral bodies above each one of them, and a ball-shaped core in between, which consists mostly of plastic and ensures flexibility.⁸

The installation of the spinal disc prosthesis is performed using general anesthesia. Access to the operating area is achieved frontally for both neck and lumbar vertebrae procedures. After the surgeon has made a 5-8cm (2-3in) incision, muscles and important structures that run along the spinal column are carefully moved to the side.⁵

The spinal disc is removed using small instruments are the nerve canal is freed of cartilage tissue. In the next step, the spinal segment is spread apart and the test prosthesis is installed; its fitting accuracy can be reviewed using radiographic monitoring. If the test prosthesis sits well, the actual, correctly-sized prosthesis is installed. The prosthesis is fixed to the bordering vertebral bodies with small teeth situated on its edges. The wound is then sewn shut.5,9 The procedure lasts about 3-6 hours altogether.⁷

Please speak about the treatment procedure in further detail with the doctor who is treating you.