I’ve heard the new artificial discs for the spine aren’t working out. I was thinking about having this operation done. What’s the latest?

Artificial disc replacements (ADRs) have been in use for over 20 years now. In fact over 15,000 ADRs have been implanted worldwide. As with any new treatment, results have improved with time and experience.

Studies of patients needing a second operation (“reoperation”) after the initial ADR have helped direct and guide patient selection for ADRs. Improvements have been made to the implant itself that have also given better results.

Today there are different implant sizes. A new porous coating put on the ends of each ADR helps bone grow around the implant. This helps keep the ADR in place and prevents shifting or migration of the disc.

Overall failure rate for ADR is about nine percent. This is equal to the failure rate for spinal fusion, the alternate treatment option for patients with painful disc degeneration. With continued improvements in ADRs, you can expect to see more of these operations in the coming years.