Total disc replacement (TDR) is becoming a popular treatment method for degenerative disc disease (DDD) of the lumbar spine. There are now four types on the market approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This study reports the results of 36 patients implanted with the ProDisc II model.
All patients were followed for at least two years. Results were measured by pain levels and work status. Function, disc height, and lumbar spine range of motion were additional factors used to measure outcomes. The use of medication was also recorded.
Patients ranged in age from 25 to 58 years old. Two-thirds of the patients had a single-level TDR. One-third had a double-level TDR. Before surgery, ten of the 36 patients could not work because of back and leg pain. After the operation, seven patients were able to go back to work full-time. Only two of the 36 patients needed any pain medication.
The authors report a 94 per cent success rate. This result is similar to studies using other types of TDRs. Function improved steadily for all patients with the ProDisc II. There were improvements in all areas measured. Patients with a single level surgery had the best outcomes. Age, gender, and body size did not seem to make any difference in results obtained.
The results of this study support the use of a TDR for lumbar spine pain from DDD. The TDR can help patients keep their motion and avoid a spinal fusion. Patients reported a high rate of satisfaction based on reduced pain levels and increased function.
Long-term results of the ProDisc II aren’t available yet. The patients in this study will continue to be followed for the next five to 10 years.