LAB TEST
Disk replacement - lumbar spine
Lumbar spine disk replacement is surgery of the lower back (lumbar) area. It is done to treat spinal stenosis or disk problems and allow normal movement of the backbone. Spinal stenosis is present when: The space for the spinal column is narrowed. The openings for the nerve roots leaving the spinal column become narrow, placing pressure on the nerve.
Description
During total disk replacement (TDR), the inner portion of a damaged spinal disk is replaced with an artificial disk to restore normal movement of the backbone. Most often, surgery is done for only one disk, but at times, two levels next to each other may be replaced. The surgery is done under general anesthesia. You…
Why the Procedure Is Performed
Cushion-like disks help the spine stay mobile. Nerves in the lower spine area get compressed due to: Narrowing of the disk due to old injuries Bulging of the disk (protrusion) Arthritis that occurs in your spine that pushes on the nerves Surgery for spinal stenosis may be considered if you have severe symptoms that…
Risks
Risks of anesthesia and surgery in general are: Allergic reaction to medicines Breathing problems Bleeding, blood clots, and infection Risks for TDR are: Increase in back pain Difficulty with movement Injury to the gut Blood clots in legs Abnormal bone formation in the muscles and tendons surrounding the spinal cord…
Before the Procedure
Your provider will order an imaging test such as an MRI, CT scan, or x-ray to check if you need surgery. Your provider will want to know if you: Are pregnant Are taking any medicines, supplements, or herbs Are diabetic, hypertensive, or have any other medical condition Are a smoker Tell your provider what medicines…
After the Procedure
You will stay in the hospital 1 to 2 days after surgery. Your surgeon will encourage you to stand and start walking as soon as the anesthesia wears off. You may have to wear a corset brace for support and faster healing. In the beginning, you'll be given clear liquids. You'll later progress to a liquid and semi-solid…
Outlook (Prognosis)
The risk of complications are low after lumbar disk replacement. The surgery usually improves movement of the backbone better than other ( spine surgeries ). It is a safe procedure and pain relief occurs soon after surgery. The risk of spinal muscle (paravertebral muscle) injury is less than with other types of spine…
References
Derman PB, Zigler Je, Guyer RD, Blumenthal S, Lieberman IH. Lumbar disk arthroplasy. In: Winn HR, ed. Youmans and Winn Neurological Surgery . 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 356. Duffy MF, Zigler JE. Lumbar total disk arthroplasty. In: Baron EM, Vaccaro AR, eds. Operative Techniques: Spine Surgery. 3rd…
This is a summary. Read the full article at www.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org (reviewed 20/09/2022).
This page is general information and is not medical advice. It does not replace a registered doctor, and it is not a prescription or a recommendation to use any medicine or test. Prices are listed prices and may change. Always follow the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.