What Are the Indications for Artificial Disc Replacement?

Degenerative Disc Disease Video

Artificial disc products that are in development or in use are typically intended for use in patients with the following indications:

• Diagnosis of degenerative disc disease (typically at a single level)
• Are between the ages of 18 and 60
• Suffer from low back pain as the major complaint (rather than leg pain)
• Have not responded to a minimum of six months of nonsurgical treatments (such as physical therapy, pain medications)
• Are candidates for spine surgery (such as a lumbar fusion)

Overall, the current indications for implantation of an artificial disc are quite similar to indications for lumbar spine fusion.

• Article written by:
• Stephen H. Hochschuler, MD

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