When a disc ruptures, or becomes herniated, the squishy disc tissue can move into the spinal canal and press against nerves, causing numbness, weakness or pain in the neck and arms.

The reasons for choosing to replace a disc may vary for each condition. Generally, if the pain caused by the affected disc has not been reduced enough with non-surgical treatments, such as medication, injections, or physical therapy, a doctor may suggest disc replacement.

Before making the operation,surgeon may order various diagnostic studies in addition to taking a history and doing a physical exam, such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, CT scans, or discograms (a special X-ray with dye that show more detail).

By inserting an artificial disc instead of performing spinal fusion, there is the possibility of reducing damage to nearby discs and joints. This is because artificial disc replacement allows for motion preservation, near normal distribution of stress along the spine and restoration of pre-degenerative disc height.

During the surgery, the diseased disk is removed and after preparing the area replaced by artificial disc. Procedure uses a ball and socket moveable part that is inserted into the spine.

Most patients are out of bed and walking on the evening of surgery.  Hospital stay is one to two days.  There are some activity restrictions for the first month and then patients can return to normal activities.

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