Disc Replacement
Intervertebral discs (or intervertebral fibrocartilage) are found between adjacent vertebrae in the spine. Normally they allow elements of motion and act as 'shock absorbers' during activity. However, deterioration or trauma sometimes occurs leading to pain and stiffness.
Disc replacement in New Zealand is now being routinely performed for certain indications. The technology allows for the substitution of a damaged or diseased intervertebral disc with an artificial replacement.
The prosthesis is made from specially modified titanium and ultra high molecular weight polyethylene. In effect there are similarities to hip and knee replacement and the objectives are largely the same - pain-relief, improved mobility, and a solution that endures. Most disc replacements are currently in the cervical spine.
Disc replacement functions in a quite different way to spinal fusion surgery, although both approaches to the patient's problem share the same basic objective. That is to pursue elimination of the debilitating pain and diminished quality of life associated with damaged and compressed nerves. Fusion can perhaps be described as the 'welding together' of appropriate vertebrae. In contrast the design of a disc replacement allows for some measure of physiological movement.
Disc replacement can mitigate towards minimally invasive spine surgery when patients circumstances are suitable. Intervention into adjacent spinal structures is also more subtle when this technique is deployed. In summary there are some potential benefits for carefully selected patients from spinal disc replacement.