Lumbar Disc Replacement

If back pain from a damaged disc limits your daily life, lumbar disc replacement may be an option to consider. This page explains what the procedure is, who may benefit, and what recovery looks like. We write this for adults in their 40s considering orthopaedic care, and we present the information in plain language. Princeton Orthopaedic Associates is available to answer questions specific to your situation. Remember that this page gives general information and you should talk with a doctor about your individual needs.

Lumbar Disc Replacement

Lumbar disc replacement is a surgical procedure that removes a damaged intervertebral disc in the lower spine and replaces it with an artificial disc. The intervertebral disc is a soft, cushion-like structure between the bones of the spine, which are called vertebrae; the disc helps absorb shock and allows motion. This treatment is usually considered for degenerative disc disease, where a disc has worn down and causes persistent low back pain despite conservative care like physical therapy, medication, and injections. The procedure focuses on the bones and soft tissues of the spine rather than ligaments or tendons. It is performed to relieve pain, preserve motion at the treated level, and avoid the stiffness that can come with fusion surgery. Not everyone is a candidate; disc replacement is not recommended for people with severe osteoporosis, active infection, certain deformities, or multi-level disease where multiple discs are affected. Your orthopaedic surgeon will evaluate imaging studies and your overall health to decide if disc replacement is appropriate for you.

What Lumbar Disc Replacement Includes

The surgeon makes a small incision, most often in the front of the abdomen, to reach the damaged disc without cutting through major back muscles. The damaged disc material is removed and the space between the adjacent vertebrae is prepared to accept the artificial disc. The implant is positioned between the vertebrae to restore height and allow controlled motion at that spinal level.

Surgeons use imaging and specialized tools to place the artificial disc precisely. Many artificial discs are made of metal and medical-grade plastic, designed to replicate the natural movement of a healthy disc. When appropriate, the procedure can be less disruptive than traditional fusion surgery, because it aims to preserve movement and limit damage to surrounding tissues.

Lumbar Disc Replacement Recovery

After surgery you will spend a short time in a recovery area before going home or to an inpatient room, depending on your surgeon's plan. Early recovery focuses on pain control, safe walking, and wound care. Most patients begin gentle walking and light activities within days, but avoid heavy lifting and bending for several weeks.

Physical therapy typically starts a few weeks after surgery to rebuild core strength, improve flexibility, and teach safe body mechanics. Full recovery varies, often taking several weeks to a few months for most daily activities and up to six months for full rehabilitation. Factors that can slow recovery include smoking, obesity, uncontrolled medical conditions, or work that requires heavy physical tasks.

Benefits and Risks of Disc Replacement

Primary benefits of lumbar disc replacement may include relief from disc-related low back pain, preservation of movement at the treated spinal level, and a lower chance of adjacent segment stiffness compared with fusion. Some patients report a quicker return to normal activities when compared with traditional fusion surgery.

Possible risks include infection, bleeding, blood clots, damage to nearby nerves or blood vessels, implant problems, stiffness, or continued pain. Any surgery has risks tied to anesthesia and your overall health. Your surgeon will review risks specific to you and explain how they compare to the possible benefits.

Patient Guidance Before and After Surgery

Before surgery you may be asked to stop certain medications, arrange transportation for the day of the procedure, and follow fasting instructions. Your clinical team will give specific preoperative instructions tailored to your health and the planned procedure. These are general guidelines, and you should consult your surgeon for directions specific to you.

During recovery you will likely need to limit lifting, twisting, and heavy physical work for several weeks. You may return to light desk work sooner, depending on pain and mobility. Following instructions from Princeton Orthopaedic Associates and your physical therapist helps improve the chance of a good outcome and reduces the risk of complications.

Lumbar Disc Replacement Quick FAQs

• Who is a candidate? You may be a candidate if a single damaged lumbar disc causes persistent low back pain and conservative care has not helped.
• How long is the hospital stay? Many patients go home the same day or after one night, but this varies by case.
• Will I regain normal motion? The goal is to preserve movement at the treated level, though individual results vary.
• When can I return to work? Return depends on job demands and recovery; light work may resume in a few weeks while heavy work may require longer.

For questions about whether lumbar disc replacement is right for you, please contact Princeton Orthopaedic Associates to arrange an evaluation. Your surgeon can review imaging, discuss risks and benefits, and help you decide on the best treatment for your condition.