Disc replacement surgery involves taking out an old damaged disc and replacing it with an artificial disc. The goal is to replicate the form and function of the spine’s natural disc, so you can move normally again.
During the procedure, a small incision is made over the affected disc area from the front of the spine. The damaged disc is removed in order to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots that are causing the pain. Once the damaged disc is removed, the artificial disc is implanted and secured.
A disc replacement is an alternative to spinal fusion surgery, which involves removing the disc and “fusing” the two neighboring bones together.