Many studies have been done to examine the outcomes of an artificial disc replacement surgery, particularly at the post surgery 5 and 10 year mark. Prior to artificial disc replacement, a spinal fusion was the main method of surgically repairing damaged discs. However, a spinal fusion creates a lack of movement, which puts more stress on the parts of the spine above and below the site. Over time, that can stress the neighboring levels of the spine (a condition known as adjacent segment disease). Such a scenario would mean a high likelihood of additional surgery will be needed. An artificial disc replacement has a lower incidence of needing another surgery in the future.