A condition known as degenerative disc disease (or simply DDD) is one in which sufferers experience pain and discomfort as a result of tears, lesions or ruptures to the discs that sit in between the vertebrae of the lower spinal region. The function of such discs is to provide cushioning for the vertebrae located above and below them, and when their efficacy becomes compromised, the vertebral plates may be inclined to rub against each other.

Friction created by this action can cause inflammation in the surrounding muscles and tissues and subsequently cause pain ranging from mild to acute. In minor cases, patients are generally treated with drugs and physiotherapy among other things; however, severely affected individuals are likely candidates for surgery.

Procedure information
Modern medicine has made advances in the field of artificial discs, now being able to offer discs of the composite, hydraulic, elastic, and mechanical variety; each with its own specific qualities and advantages and disadvantages. The type of disc used depends on the condition and physical characteristics of the patient as well as factors such as suitability and availability.

Typically, access to the patient’s lower spine is provided via an incision in the abdomen, permitting ease of access to the affected discs and facilitating relatively trouble-free insertion of the artificial disc. The operation is performed under a general anesthetic and generally takes a couple of hours.

Recovery time
Patients can expect recovery to be fairly lengthy on account of the seriousness of the surgery, with a period of 6 months before full health is obtained. Physiotherapy begins the day following the procedure and is necessary throughout the recovery period to improve lower back strength and mobility. Provided the patient abstains from intensive manual labor, most patients can return to work within a month of the operation.