Artificial Disc Replacement in San Diego, CA

What Is Artificial Disc Replacement?

Artificial disc replacement (ADR) is a surgical procedure that replaces a damaged or degenerated spinal disc with a mechanical implant designed to mimic the natural movement of the spine.
Unlike traditional spinal fusion, which permanently joins two vertebrae, ADR preserves flexibility while relieving pressure on spinal nerves.

Dr. Ghosh has extensive experience evaluating both cervical (neck) and lumbar (lower back) disc replacement options and, drawing on his involvement in early clinical trials and use of state-of-the-art implants and imaging technology, can help patients understand whether artificial discs are an appropriate and safe choice for their condition.

When Is Artificial Disc Replacement Recommended?

This procedure is typically recommended for patients who have:

• Degenerative disc disease in the cervical or lumbar spine
• Persistent neck or back pain that hasn’t improved with therapy or medication
• Herniated discs causing nerve compression
• Disc-related pain without severe joint instability or osteoporosis

Artificial disc replacement can be a life-changing option for patients who want to maintain motion while eliminating pain caused by disc damage.

How Artificial Disc Replacement Works

In an artificial disc replacement procedure, the surgeon typically makes a small incision in the front of the neck or lower back, depending on the disc’s location. The damaged disc is carefully removed and replaced with an artificial implant designed to mimic the structure and function of a natural disc.

The procedure includes:

1. Removing the damaged disc while preserving surrounding bone and tissue.
2. Inserting a custom-designed artificial disc implant.
3. Ensuring proper alignment and mobility under real-time imaging guidance.
4. Closing the incision with minimal scarring.

The result is restored disc height, reduced nerve pressure, and preserved motion, without the stiffness associated with fusion surgery.

Benefits of Artificial Disc Replacement

Compared to spinal fusion, ADR offers several distinct advantages:

• Maintains natural spinal movement
• Reduces the risk of degeneration in nearby discs
• Smaller incision and faster recovery
• Less postoperative pain and scarring
• Shorter hospital stay (often outpatient)
• Long-term stability and flexibility

These benefits make artificial disc replacement in San Diego an effective, motion-preserving solution for patients seeking relief from chronic disc pain.