| Spine
Implants
The Evolution of Disc Replacement
Chronic pain from damaged or degenerated discs can destroy your quality of life. Although this pain is common, medical science has progressed by leaps and bounds over the last several decades, and there are now better surgical methods of treating degenerative disc disorders. Not only have the methods improved, but also the technology and materials used. The latest disc replacement implant designs have made artificial disc replacement (ADR) surgery truly more effective, and safer, than ever before.
Once the decision to replace a degenerated disc is made, the selection of implants and surgeons is a key to success. Any artificial disc can offer relief and mobility by replacing the deteriorating disc with a mobile implant. Early “first generation” disc replacement implants mimic the height of the original disc and provide unrestrained mobility. The Charite, Prestige, and ProDisc artificial discs are examples of this early implant technology.
The Charite Disc was the first disc replacement approved by the FDA, but it has its limitations. It has a three-piece plastic core design that is innovative, but it provides limited stability to the spine, and is prone to plate migration. Other “second generation ball-in-socket” designs, eliminated the plate migration issues and provide more stability, but still lack some key characteristics. While these disc replacements are, in most cases, much better than leaving in the degenerated disc, or fusion, there are now improved implant designs that should offer better long term results.
By providing shock absorption and more controlled motion in all directions, better replicating the characteristics of the natural disc, these “next generation” disc replacement implants should offer improved long term outcomes. These implants are designed to replicate natural motion, allowing the implant to work in concert with the remaining human discs. The resulting natural functionality of the entire spinal curve should provide the best chance for a full recovery, and prevent or delay additional adjacent level degeneration.
These next generation disc replacement options are not yet approved by the FDA for use in the US, but are approved and available in Europe.
In order to explore all of your disc replacement options and find the best surgical team and device for your case, consult with the surgeons at Stenum Hospital. At Stenum they draw upon the expertise of world-class doctors and therapists to offer a complete spine solution that fits your unique needs.
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