Artificial Disc Offers Back Pain Relief

Some back pain sufferers have a new option for treating degenerative disc disease. Dr. Paul Hartleben with Summit Orthopedics is trained to perform artificial disc replacement surgery, which can help relieve pain and restore a person’s mobility and flexibility.

Artificial disc replacement surgery entails replacing a worn or damaged spinal disc with an artificial disc implant, made up of a plastic core sandwiched between two metal endplates. The first implant, for the lumbar or low portion of the spine, was approved in 2004, and last year an implant for the upper spine (the cervical) was approved.

“Artificial disc replacement is considered a major breakthrough in back and spine care,” says Dr. Hartleben, who specializes in spine surgery. “Like artificial knees and hips, it is designed to relieve the patient of pain and preserve flexibility in the joint.”

The artificial disc is an alternative to spinal fusion and is considered only after conservative treatment methods have been explored. It functions like a natural disc, helping to align the spine and preserve the spine's ability to move. Fusion is a traditional treatment for back pain, but it can limit normal motion and flexibility. In addition to relieving back pain and preserving flexibility, clinical trials show that the artificial disc can help patients return to work and an active lifestyle sooner.

For more information on these artificial discs or other back pain treatment, contact Summit Orthopedics at (651) 842-5200.