Three years ago I had a disc removed and replaced with an artificial one. I knew it might not last forever, but I was surprised to find out it already has to be removed. What happens now?
Experts did think that lumbar artificial disc replacements (ADRs) might last longer than the 10 to 15 years of hip or knee replacements. With less motion in the spine (compared to a hip or knee joint) and no synovium in the spine, there was hope that the ADRs would last much longer. Synovium is the soft tissue which lines the surfaces inside some joints.
Early studies of ADR failure have disproved this idea. Tiny particles called wear debris flake off the implant causing an inflammatory reaction. The result can be loosening and failure of the implant.
The surgeon will use X-rays and other imaging studies to assess the damage before surgery. Most likely the implant will be removed and examined. Once the surgeon can see the condition of the implant and the surrounding tissue,the cause of the problem may be identified.
It's possible you could get another ADR to replace the first one. In cases where this won't work, the surgeon may have to fuse your spine. Lumbar spine fusion can be done in several different ways. This may be decided based on your age, the condition of your spine, and the density of your bones.
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