Artificial Disc Replacement

Artificial disc replacement has been around for 25 years, but new technology has made the procedure minimally invasive. These new technologies lessen recovery time considerably and have less risk of side effects. Artificial disc replacement can make a world of difference to those who have back pain due to degenerative disc disease.

What is Disc Replacement Surgery?

Disc replacement surgery replaces the worn-out, pain-causing natural disc with an artificial disc with many of the same properties. This minimally invasive procedure can help restore a patient’s mobility and quality of life.

The artificial disc is meant to mimic the actions of the natural disc as much as possible. These discs are made of either metal, plastic, or a combination. Various disc designs are on the market, and the doctor will choose the type best suited for the individual patient. Along with the two plates comprising the disc, a plastic bearing is inserted between the plates that allows the artificial disc to move in a way similar to that of a natural disc.

Who Can Benefit from Spinal Disc Replacement?

Candidates for spinal disc replacement usually suffer from degenerative or herniated discs. Spinal disc replacement surgery can relieve a patient's chronic back pain and allow them to resume daily activities.

Generally, spinal disc replacement candidates have pain that does not improve with conservative treatments. Such treatments may include medication or physical therapy.

Doctors must first determine whether your pain results from damaged or degenerated discs. Diagnostic testing, such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and a physical exam, confirms whether the pain is caused by disc issues.

The following conditions can rule out disc replacement surgery as a patient option:

Prior spinal or abdominal surgeries
Obesity
Osteoporosis
Spinal deformities, such as scoliosis
Severe joint disease

Types of Artificial Disc Replacement Procedures

There are two major types of artificial disc replacement procedures. One focuses on replacing a defective disc in the lower back, while the other involves discs in the neck area.

Cervical Spine Disc Replacement Surgery

The cervical spine in the neck consists of seven vertebrae, each of which has a disc to help with shock absorption.

Conditions causing neck pain, lack of mobility, numbness and weakness may benefit from cervical spine disc replacement surgery. Cervical spine surgery is performed either through the back (posterior) or the abdomen (anterior). The type of surgery depends upon the underlying condition. These include:

Degenerated discs: Wear and tear cause discs to shrink, causing pressure on spinal nerves.
Herniated discs: Gel-like material leaks from the disc, again putting pressure on the spinal nerves.
Spinal cord compression: A condition resulting in pressure on the spinal cord. Infections and tumors can cause this pressure.
Radiculopathy, or pinched nerve
Broken neck bones
Neck deformities

Also known as cervical disc arthroplasty, cervical spinal disc replacement surgery involves removing the damaged disc and installing an artificial disc made of either metal or plastic.

Lumbar Disc Replacement Surgery

Five bones in the lower back make up the lumbar spine, along with five intervertebral discs. Pain from herniated or degenerated discs may affect not only the lower back but also the legs.

While it varies for each patient and depends on your specific diagnosis, lumbar disc replacement surgery may be a better option than spinal fusion surgery, which permanently fuses several vertebrae together. Lumbar disc replacement surgery involves the surgeon making an incision in the abdomen and replacing the natural disc with the artificial disc. Your spine surgeon will help evaluate the best option for you based on your specific symptoms and condition.

What to Expect During Disc Replacement Surgery

The entire disc replacement surgery procedure takes between two to three hours and is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon creates an incision in the abdomen to gain access to the front of the spine. The damaged disc is removed, and its space is opened so nerve pressure is released.

Using fluoroscopy or X-ray guidance, the surgeon then inserts the artificial disc into the space, attaching the endplates to the vertebrae. The artificial disc helps the space between the vertebrae remain at the normal level and can also prevent adjacent vertebrae from breaking down.

Recovery and Rehabilitation After Artificial Disc Replacement

Patients should expect to spend a few days in the hospital after the surgery. The doctor may recommend walking early on to help build strength. Rehabilitation typically includes physical therapy for several weeks. In the early stages of recovery, patients should avoid bending and making any twisting movements.

Full recovery takes four to six weeks or more, depending on the patient and the procedure. After recovery, the patient will visit the doctor at least annually to monitor their condition and the artificial disc.

Keep in mind that not everyone recovers at the same rate. Much will depend on the type of surgery, the patient’s age, overall health, and their lifestyle. Those who were in better physical shape before surgery usually recovered more quickly than those with a sedentary lifestyle. It is important to limit lifting or bending until the back fully heals. Follow your doctor’s directions regarding exercise and physical therapy.

Find a Spine Doctor

Why Choose Hoag Orthopedic Institute for Spinal Disc Replacement

At Hoag Orthopedic Institute, our board-certified spine specialists use the latest techniques and technology to relieve your back pain. We have long been recognized as among the top orthopedic hospitals in the nation and perform the highest volume of spine surgeries in Orange County, California.

Frequently Asked Questions

Your first visit to Hoag Orthopedic Institute is a chance for you and your spine specialist to get a complete picture of your current back health and goals for recovery. You’ll meet with a board-certified, fellowship-trained back doctor who will listen to your concerns, review any prior imaging or test results, and ask detailed questions about your symptoms and lifestyle. A detailed physical exam may follow to assess your range of motion, strength, and nerve function.
Your back specialist may recommend advanced imaging or additional diagnostic tests available onsite. Together, you’ll discuss what’s causing your pain or mobility limitations and review both non-surgical and surgical treatment options. You’ll leave with a clear and personalized plan designed for your specific needs—and a team ready to support you through each step of your care.
You can connect with one of our qualified spine specialists to review your symptoms, discuss any existing test results, and explore your back treatment options. To schedule your appointment, simply call our scheduling team at (949) 890-0464 or complete the secure request form on our website.
We’ll connect you with the right back doctor for your needs and can help arrange imaging or records before your visit. From the start, you’ll have access to advanced diagnostics and the latest treatments—including the latest techniques for minimally invasive procedures—tailored to your condition and goals.
At Hoag Orthopedic Institute, our highly qualified physical therapists, back doctors, and spine surgeons work together to treat a broad range of spine conditions. These include addressing herniated discs, relieving spinal stenosis, and managing degenerative disc disease and scoliosis. Conservative treatments often include targeted physical therapy, image-guided injections to relieve nerve pain, or medications to reduce inflammation.
When surgery is your most effective option, our spine specialists perform procedures including spinal decompression to free compressed nerves, spinal fusion to stabilize the spine, and disc replacement to maintain mobility. Many operations are performed using minimally invasive or robotic-assisted techniques, which combine advanced imaging with precise instrument control to protect surrounding tissues and support a smoother recovery. Our back specialists devise a custom spine plan for each patient, designed to relieve pain, restore function, and help them return to active, pain-free living.
Hoag Orthopedic Institute offers expert care from fellowship-trained, board-certified orthopedic spine surgeons, back doctors, and spine specialists who are leaders in their field. Our team also utilizes advanced techniques such as robotic-assisted spine surgery—providing greater surgical planning, accuracy, steadier instrument control, and less disruption to healthy structures for a smoother recovery.
Exceptional technology and an excellent surgical outcome form just part of your experience with our specialized back care. Your orthopedic spine doctor will focus on your total well-being, creating a personalized treatment plan—surgical or non-surgical—to help you move without pain and regain function. From diagnosis through recovery, we’re committed to getting you back to the lifestyle you love, free from the limitations of back pain or dysfunction.

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