Disc Arthroplasty – Lumbar

In some cases of spinal damage or chronic back pain, the best solution is artificial disc replacement (disc arthroplasty).

Procedure

This surgery is performed under general anaesthesia. It involves replacing a damaged disc with a prosthetic device designed to function in the same way as a natural disc. Specialised instruments are used to insert the artificial disc.

Medicare restricts the use of artificial discs if you have previously undergone surgery at the same spinal level. Please note that there may be additional restrictions, which our staff will discuss with you.

Recovery

Recovery varies between patients and procedures. As a general guide, recovery may include the following:

• Five to seven days in hospital
• No heavy lifting for the first few weeks, followed by gradually increasing lifting activities as advised
• Time off work to allow for recovery
• Returning to work on restricted duties for a period of time
• No driving for 4 to 6 weeks
• No swimming for 4 to 6 weeks
• Physiotherapy
• Pain medication
• Rehabilitation, depending on the procedure
• A back brace may sometimes be required
• Follow-up appointments with an Occupational Therapist may be necessary