Lumbar Disc Replacement
Lumbar Disc Replacement Specialists
Lumbar disc replacement surgery is an advanced treatment option for chronic low back pain caused by a damaged or degenerative disc. If conservative treatments have not provided lasting relief, Elite’s board-certified spine surgeons in Nashville and Franklin, TN, can help determine whether lumbar disc replacement is right for you. They specialize in using minimally invasive techniques to treat disc problems. Call or book online today.
Elite Sports Medicine + Orthopedics
There is no better place in the country to go for orthopedic care.
Why Choose Elite for Nashville Orthopedics?
Highly-Skilled Doctors
Our team is composed of highly skilled specialists with a wealth of experience in addressing a wide range of orthopedic conditions. Each doctor’s dedication and expertise ensure that patients receive the best possible care. We emphasize continuous professional development and advanced training to stay at the forefront of orthopedic advancements. This ongoing commitment allows us to manage even the most complex cases.
Trusted by Athletes and Celebrities
Our clinic serves renowned athletes and celebrities, but we prioritize delivering a VIP experience to every patient. With an esteemed reputation that attracts individuals from various backgrounds, including elite sports figures, we are committed to providing personalized, high-quality treatment regardless of fame. Our dedicated team ensures each patient feels valued, receiving exceptional care and attention tailored to their specific needs.
Best in the Country
Our orthopedic clinic is among the best in the country. We stand out due to our highly skilled team and beautiful facilities. Whether it’s routine care or specialized surgical procedures, our unwavering commitment to excellence ensures that you receive optimal outcomes and an unmatched patient experience. We take pride in setting the standard for exceptional orthopedic treatment and personalized care.
Proven Results
The track record of successful outcomes and satisfied patients at Elite speaks to the exceptional care you can expect. We measure our effectiveness through patient feedback and clinical results, consistently achieving high satisfaction rates. From the initial consultation through the recovery process, we provide comprehensive support, making each patient’s journey to wellness as smooth and effective as possible.
Cutting-Edge Technology
We leverage modernization in orthopedic technology and techniques, ensuring that we deliver the highest standard of care. Equipped with cutting-edge diagnostic and treatment tools, we achieve precise and effective interventions tailored to each patient’s needs. By embracing technological advancements, we are able to offer minimally invasive procedures that reduce recovery time and improve outcomes.
Accessible Orthopedics
With locations across Nashville, Franklin, and Brentwood, we focus on making orthopedic care convenient and accessible. Our strategically positioned clinics deliver high-quality orthopedic services right in your community. Understanding the significance of healthcare accessibility, we are dedicated to expanding our reach. Our facilities are designed to meet your needs with ease.
Educational Videos
Frequently Asked Questions
Lumbar disc replacement surgery is a procedure used to treat chronic low back pain caused by a damaged or degenerative disc in the lower (lumbar) spine. During the procedure, the damaged disc is removed and replaced with an artificial disc designed to maintain movement between the vertebrae.
It may be recommended for patients with:
- Discogenic back pain
- Lumbar radiculopathy (nerve pain that radiates into the legs)
- Certain cases of lumbar spondylolisthesis
Unlike spinal fusion, which permanently joins two vertebrae together, lumbar disc replacement preserves motion in the spine, helping maintain greater flexibility and function while relieving pain.
Lumbar artificial disc replacement can be an effective treatment option for certain patients with chronic low back pain caused by a damaged or degenerative disc. Before recommending surgery, our board-certified spine surgeons perform a comprehensive evaluation that may include a physical examination, review of your medical history, and diagnostic imaging to determine the source of your symptoms.
You may be a candidate for lumbar artificial disc replacement if you:
- Have moderate to severe degeneration of one or two discs in the lumbar spine (typically at the L3-L4, L4-L5, or L5-S1 levels)
- Experience pain primarily in the lower back, with or without some leg pain
- Are in generally good overall health
- Have not achieved lasting relief after at least six months of conservative treatments, such as physical therapy, medications, or injections
Because every patient is unique, the best way to determine whether lumbar disc replacement is right for you is through a thorough evaluation with a qualified spine surgeon.
Both lumbar disc replacement and spinal fusion are surgical procedures used to treat chronic back pain caused by damaged spinal discs, but they work in different ways.
Spinal fusion involves permanently joining two or more vertebrae together using bone grafts and surgical hardware. Once the bones heal, the treated segment no longer moves independently, which can reduce flexibility in that area of the spine.
Lumbar disc replacement involves removing the damaged disc and replacing it with an artificial disc designed to function like a natural spinal joint. This allows the treated segment to continue moving while helping to relieve pain.
Key differences include:
- Motion Preservation: Disc replacement is designed to maintain movement in the spine, while fusion eliminates movement at the treated level.
- Flexibility: Patients who undergo disc replacement may retain more natural bending, twisting, and range of motion.
- Treatment Approach: Fusion stabilizes the spine by joining vertebrae together, whereas disc replacement restores function by replacing the damaged disc.
The best procedure depends on your specific condition, symptoms, and overall spinal health. Your spine surgeon can help determine which option is most appropriate for you.
Recovery after lumbar disc replacement surgery varies from patient to patient, but most people can expect a recovery period of approximately three months as the spine heals and adapts to the artificial disc.
Following surgery, patients typically stay in the hospital for one to two nights for monitoring and pain management. Before being discharged, most patients are encouraged to stand and walk, and some may temporarily use a cane or walker during the early stages of recovery.
Your surgeon may recommend:
- Pain management medications to help control discomfort during the healing process
- Physical therapy to improve strength, flexibility, and mobility
- Walking and light activity to promote circulation and support recovery
- A back brace, in some cases, to help protect the spine while it heals
Most patients gradually increase their activity level over time, following a personalized recovery plan provided by their surgeon. Attending follow-up appointments and following postoperative instructions are important for achieving the best possible outcome.
Lumbar disc replacement has been shown to be a highly successful treatment option for appropriately selected patients with degenerative disc disease. The procedure is designed to relieve pain, improve function, and preserve motion in the spine.
Research has demonstrated several long-term benefits, including:
- Significant reductions in low back and leg pain
- Improved mobility and daily function
- High patient satisfaction rates
- Low rates of complications and additional surgery
- Preservation of spinal motion compared to spinal fusion
Many patients are able to return to their normal activities and work following recovery. In a long-term study, nearly 74% of patients returned to their original occupation, and more than 77% reported the highest level of satisfaction with their surgical outcome.
As with any surgery, individual results vary based on factors such as overall health, the severity of disc degeneration, and adherence to postoperative rehabilitation. A thorough evaluation by a spine surgeon is the best way to determine whether lumbar disc replacement is likely to provide lasting relief for your condition.
