Back pain is a common distress that affects people of any age group. The pain can be due to nerve irritation caused by mechanical pressure. Proper body mechanics and medication is the first step in the analysis. When the issue is severe further regimen is recommended. One such procedure is lumbar total disc replacement that treats lumbar degenerative disc disease (DDD). If you face multiple spine problems, you must look for this treatment as it is gaining popularity in the medical field.
What is a lumbar total disc replacement?
This is a type of spine and back surgery. The spine in the human body is made up of bones known as vertebrae which are stacked upon each other. There are discs between these stacked-up bones that work as a cushion and enable movement of these bones. It helps the bones not crush and rub with each other. One such vertebra known as the Lumbar vertebrae is situated on the bottom of the spine.
The lumbar total disc replacement process involves replacing a degenerated or worn-out disc in the lower part of the spine with an artificial disc. It is made from either only metal/plastic or a combination of both.
When Might One Need This Treatment?
One of the primary causes, why people are advised this surgery is that they experience chronic back pain. But not everyone who has back pain should undergo this surgery. One needs to consult with a doctor to determine if it is the correct procedure for them. After a course of therapy, the practitioner will work on this requirement.
Usually, these are the cases when the Lumbar disc replacement is suggested.
- The back pain occurs in more than one lower disc,
- There is no case of previous spine surgery,
- One is overweight or obese,
- There is no significant joint pain or compression on the nerves of the spine,
- No case of scoliosis or spinal deformity.
The Procedure Of Lumbar Disc Replacement
Anesthesia is administered through an IV line into a vein. Usually, vascular/orthopedic/neurosurgeons assist the process. An incision is driven in the abdomen, and the organs and blood vessels are moved to the side to access the spine.
The pressured disc is then removed, and a new artificial disc is placed. The surgical procedure is then completed. After this, one is taken to a recovery area that is closely monitored until one regains consciousness. The IV and a catheter may be present in your hand and bladder, respectively, to allow proper urination.
The post-surgery details are clearly explained to the patients.
How should one get ready for a lumbar disc replacement?
One needs to take X-rays, MRI, CT Scans, and blood tests along with the physical examinations as suggested by the physician. The doctors will then probe the extent of the pain and damage. With these, they will get a better idea of the severity of the ailment, and then after observation, the right surgery will be suggested.
The doctor must be informed about food, medicines, and any other supplement that one is taking along with the patient’s history. Also, as a common precaution, one is usually not given food and water for several hours before the surgery. The process is commenced only after a close survey of the patient’s readiness both physically and mentally.
The hospital briefs the patient with the post-surgery activities, and the review for the same may be done periodically. It is essential to follow a strict pattern to recover and resume normalcy. Self-care, physiotherapy and a healthy lifestyle speed up the process.
Conclusion
The lumbar disc replacement is an alternative surgery wherein the core reason for pain is removed, and a non-natural disc is inserted in the human body. As mentioned, it is not required for everyone, so one must consult a doctor. With the technological advances in the medical field, this procedure has been made simple and affordable.
Author Bio:
Alison Lurie is a farmer of words in the field of creativity. She is an experienced independent content writer with a demonstrated history of working in the writing and editing industry. She is a multi-niche content chef who loves cooking new things.