Replace defective joints in the knee and hips is not unheard of and there’s a big chance that you or someone you know has had this surgery done. But can this type of procedure be done to address issues in the spinal region?

In this episode of Back Talk Doc, Dr. Sanjiv Lakhia is joined by Dr. Dom Coric, who is an expert in spine trauma, spine surgery, and in particular, spinal arthroplasty. They dive deep into all aspects of artificial disc replacement surgery in the neck and lower back. Dom describes what happens during this type of procedure, which involves replacing the structural problem with an artificial disc, instead of the normally used spacers, rod screws, plates, etc. He also talks about the types of artificial discs that are typically used, how they have evolved through the years, and the differences between those that are utilized for the neck versus the lower back.

Dom discusses some exclusion criteria for artificial disc surgery. This procedure is recommended only for discs that are younger and don’t have spondylosis or wear and tear changes. Having healthy lumbar facet joints is an important factor as well.

Although this is a fairly new area in spine surgery and results are more visible long-term, there is a lot of cutting-edge research being conducted. And so far, the medical community is expecting positive outcomes with artificial disc replacement surgery.

What is artificial disc replacement surgery 06:27

Incidence of sacroiliac joint pain after lumbar fusion surgery 12:06

What is an artificial disc 13:19

Artificial disc for the lumbar spine 17:18

Types of devices for low back versus neck 18:49

Exclusion criteria for artificial disc surgery 19:55

Positive outcomes for disc replacements in the neck and low back 21:30

Decrease in incidence of adjacent level disease with disc replacement surgery 22:35

Shelf-life of disc replacement devices 24:17

Lumbar facet joints 26:32

Dr. Dom's go-to health habits 30:13

Back Talk Doc is brought to you by Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, with offices in North and South Carolina. To learn more about Dr. Lakhia and treatment options for back and spine issues, go to backtalkdoc.com. To schedule an appointment with Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, you can call us at 1-800-344-6716 or visit our website at carolinaneurosurgery.com.