Artificial Disc Replacement
Artificial disc replacement removes a damaged spinal disc and replaces it with a mechanical implant designed to preserve motion at that level. It is an alternative to fusion for certain patients with disc-related neck or low-back problems. It is best established in the neck (cervical spine), with more selective use in the lower back.
Procedure overview
What happens during Artificial Disc Replacement?
- Performed under general anesthesia, usually through an incision at the front of the neck or abdomen.
- Surgery typically takes one to three hours; hospital stays are commonly one night or less for cervical cases.
- Walking begins the same day, and many patients return to light activity within a few weeks.
- A brief period of activity restriction protects the implant while tissues heal.
- Full recovery commonly takes about three months, sometimes longer for lumbar procedures.
Recovery
What is recovery like after Artificial Disc Replacement?
Artificial disc replacement is designed to preserve motion, and recovery is often a bit faster than a fusion because there is no bone that needs to knit together. Many people walk the same day and go home within a day or two. Gentle motion is usually encouraged early, with heavy lifting, bending, and high-impact activity limited for several weeks. Desk work often resumes in one to three weeks and fuller activity over one to three months. Physical therapy helps restore strength and flexibility. Report fever, wound drainage, new or worsening weakness or numbness, or any loss of bladder or bowel control.
Top spine surgeons
Addison T. Stone
VerifiedAdrian P. Jackson
VerifiedAndrew M. Casden
VerifiedAnthony R. Mork
VerifiedBradley A. Heiges
VerifiedChristopher R. Edwards
VerifiedClement K. Jones
VerifiedColin G. Crosby
VerifiedDheera Ananthakrishnan
VerifiedDonald MacKenzie
VerifiedEdward D. Simmons
VerifiedEhsan Saadat
VerifiedErsno Eromo
VerifiedGreg S. Khounganian
VerifiedHongbo Liu
VerifiedJahangir Asghar
VerifiedJames Kayvanfar
VerifiedJeffrey B. Cantor
VerifiedJeffrey M. Spivak
VerifiedJohn D. Attenello
VerifiedJose E. Rodriguez
VerifiedJoseph L. Laratta
VerifiedJosue P. Gabriel
VerifiedJustin S. Field
VerifiedCommon questions
How is disc replacement different from fusion?
Fusion joins two vertebrae so they no longer move; disc replacement preserves motion at the level with a mechanical implant. Preserving motion may reduce stress on neighboring levels, though candidacy for disc replacement is narrower.
Am I a candidate for artificial disc replacement?
Candidates typically have disc-related symptoms at one or two levels without significant arthritis, instability, or deformity. A spine surgeon will use imaging and an exam to determine whether replacement or another option fits.
How long is recovery?
Many patients return to light activities within a few weeks, faster than a typical fusion recovery. Full recovery commonly takes around three months, guided by your surgeon.
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What conditions does Artificial Disc Replacement treat?
This page provides general information only and is not medical advice. Consult a qualified physician about your specific situation. Listings are not endorsements.