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Spinal Fusion vs Disc Replacement: When to Consider Each

by | Oct 22, 2024 | Surgery

Lumbar artificial disc replacement vector

So, you’ve heard that a spinal fusion or a disc replacement surgery might be the miracle cure you’ve been waiting for to solve your pain and improve your quality of life once and for all.

We’re here to level with you: no surgical intervention is without risks. That having been said there are many benefits of both spinal fusion and disc replacement that very often far outweigh any associated risks.

That said each procedure offers its own set of unique benefits and may be better-suited to certain individuals. Let’s uncover which might be right for you below.

A Note On Lumbar vs. Cervical Disc Replacement & Fusion Surgeries

Cervical and lumbar refer to two out of five regions of the spine that are prone to problems and therefore frequently operated on.

You may see information elsewhere online comparing cervical disc replacement vs fusion or lumbar disc replacement vs fusion specifically, but these simply refer to the area of the spine that fusion or disc replacement occurs:

  • Cervical Disc Replacement: This refers to the replacement of discs in the cervical region of the spine (neck area or vertebrae C1-C7).
  • Lumbar Disc Replacement: This refers to the replacement of discs in the lumbar region of the spine (the lumbar region of the spine consists of vertebrae L1-L5, but vertebrae L3-L5 are the only ones that can be safely corrected by lumbar disc replacement surgery).
  • Cervical Spinal Fusion: This refers to the fusion of vertebrae C1-C7.
  • Lumbar Spinal Fusion: This refers to the fusion of vertebrae L1-L5.

Furthermore, underneath the umbrella terms “disc replacement” and “fusion” several different subtypes of surgery exist, each of which has its own benefits and risks.

Just some of these include:

Comparing Spinal Fusion vs. Total Disc Replacement Surgeries Fusion

Doctor shows patient a diagram of the spine while explaining the difference between artificial disc replacement vs fusion

While there are many differences between the various types of fusion and disc replacement surgeries, respectively, these are best discussed with a qualified orthopaedic spine surgeon.

Generally speaking, however, there are some key differences you should be aware of when comparing cervical and lumbar fusion surgery vs. cervical and lumbar disc replacement surgery to see if one type of surgery may be better suited to you than another.

Potential Benefits of a Spinal Fusion Surgery

“A spinal fusion surgery involves adequately decompressing the spinal canal and removing the pressure off the nerves by removing the damaged disc or bone. The surgeon will insert a cage or spacer into the now open disc space allowing the adjacent vertebrae to fuse together, and he will stabilize your spine with screws and rods. When this surgery is successful, your spine is no longer unstable, and your nerve pain will be gone.

Chances of success are high, given that a fusion is well-established, and the patient heals well.

A spine fusion surgery may be the only option for some patients with severe instability, stenosis, or fractures.

Potential Benefits of Total Disc Replacement

A total disc replacement may lead to better function, higher patient satisfaction, and lower risk of re-operation compared to a fusion surgery. It may also mitigate range-of-motion reduction post-surgery and recovery times can be faster than with a fusion.

That said, not every patient is a candidate for a total disc replacement if they have significant degenerative disc disease.

How Do I Know If a Fusion or Disc Replacement Surgery is Right for Me?

The only way to know for sure which is right for you is to contact an experienced orthopaedic spine surgeon with expertise in all surgical and nonsurgical treatment options.

Discuss Your Treatment Options With Dr. Baig

The best type of surgery for your degenerative disc disease and the ensuing complications really depends on a variety of factors, including:

  • Age
  • Overall health
  • The severity and extent of your disc damage

Still wondering whether a total disc replacement or a spine fusion surgery is right for you?? Consult with Dr. Rafath Baig now to learn what treatment option might better fit your needs and lifestyle.