why not have an artificial disc replacement?
Artificial disc replacement is the most developed of the attempts to restore the normal motion and weight bearing of a worn-out disc. In 2006, the first lumbar disc replacement was approved by the U.S. FDA. Throughout the world, more than 10,000 patients have had this model of artificial disc placed in their low back. There are at least 10 other models of artificial discs being used throughout the world. At a recent seminar on innovations in spine surgery, I heard several discussions concerning the artificial disc. During the meeting I wrote down the following notes regarding disc replacement: “limited indications, technically difficult to perform, potential life- and limb-threatening complications, fixing failures is difficult, if a spinal fusion is required to repair a failed procedure it is difficult to perform, and the results of the fusion are not as good as would be expected.” I then heard a lecture from a spinal surgeon, whom I respect, on his experience with treating more than
