Disc Replacement Surgery in Bridgeport, CT

Lower back pain is a problem that two out of three people experience in their lifetime. This type of pain can be highly debilitating. In many cases, the cause of back pain is a worn-out or damaged disc. Such a problem may warrant disc replacement surgery, also called artificial disc surgery. During this procedure, the surgeon removes the damaged disc and replaces it with a prosthetic.

Disc replacement surgery can improve your quality of life and prevent other back problems. At Bridgeport, CT, CT Spine & Orthopedic has an experienced surgical team that performs complex back surgeries, including disc replacement. Contact our Bridgeport disc replacement surgeons to learn more about your options and treatment opportunities.  

Candidates for Disc Replacement Surgery

Patients with worn-out discs can take advantage of several treatment options. Depending on your characteristics and medical history, an orthopedist may suggest physical therapy, occupational therapy, exercises, steroid injections, or surgery. When pain medication and physical therapy don’t work, a doctor may recommend artificial disc surgery.

A good candidate for a disc replacement procedure:

  • Suffers from back pain caused by one or two damaged intervertebral discs
  • Doesn’t have significant facet joint diseases or bony compression on spinal nerves
  • Hasn’t had major spine surgeries in the past
  • Doesn’t have scoliosis
  • Doesn’t have osteoporosis
  • Doesn’t respond to conservative treatment measures for several months

Each patient who suffers from back problems is unique. Before making a decision about the candidacy for disc replacement surgery, our clinical team will run a variety of tests. Even if you have any of the conditions listed above, after running the necessary tests and studying your medical history, an orthopedic surgeon may still agree to perform the surgery.

The Recovery Process After Disc Replacement Surgery

While you are still in the hospital, the clinical team monitors your condition and checks how well you are regaining your range of motion. The majority of patients are encouraged to walk the next day after the surgery since early motion contributes to faster rehabilitation. 

Once you leave the hospital, the rehabilitation period begins. The duration of your recovery can depend on many factors, including the type of surgery, your age, and your health. You can start performing basic exercises soon after the surgery. Doctors will encourage routine walking and stretching. You may need to wait several months before engaging in activities that put significant stress on your back.

The majority of patients experience significant improvement in just a few weeks after the surgery. To speed up the positive outcome during the rehabilitation period, it’s important to communicate with the clinical team and follow their recommendations closely.  

Disc Replacement vs. Spinal Fusion Surgery

Both disc replacement and spinal fusion surgery address the problem of degenerated or damaged discs. Spinal fusion surgery involves connecting two or more bones in your spine to prevent movement between them and alleviate pain. Disc replacement has several advantages over spinal fusion surgery, including:

  • Protected discs: After spinal fusion surgery, vertebrae remain immobilized, which could cause the top disc to degenerate in the future.
  • Shorter recovery time: It could take months to recover from spinal fusion surgery, while disc replacement rehabilitation usually only takes several weeks.
  • Motion and mobility: Since the prosthetic mimics your natural disc, disc replacement surgery preserves the motion and mobility of your spine.

While disc replacement has many advantages, not all patients are eligible for this surgery. If you aren’t a good candidate for disc replacement operation, your doctor may recommend opting for spinal fusion.

Both disc replacement and spinal fusion surgeries come with a set of possible side effects and complications. The surgical team at CT Spine & Orthopedic has performed countless disc replacement and spinal fusion operations. This experience and expertise contribute to the success of the surgery and shorter recovery time.

Advantages of Choosing CT Spine & Orthopedic for Disc Replacement in Bridgeport

The main advantages of working with our surgical and clinical teams are:

  • Experience with the latest surgical tools and technologies
  • A comfortable environment
  • An individualized approach to each patient before, during, and after the surgery
  • Low risk of infections and complications
  • High success rate
  • Dedication to the community

At CT Spine & Orthopedic, our Bridgeport disc replacement surgeons are dedicated to alleviating our patients’ pain and improving their quality of life.

Contact Experienced Bridgeport Disc Replacement Surgeons at CT Spine & Orthopedic Today

With the right approach, back pain is highly treatable. If the treatments you are trying don’t work, you may need disc replacement surgery. At CT Spine & Orthopedic, we have a team of experienced surgeons who have performed many successful disc replacement operations. Our team can help diagnose your back condition and recommend the most effective treatment for your individual case. Our Concierge Team can also help you get everything in line for your treatment and appointments. 

Please contact our Bridgeport disc replacement surgeons to schedule an appointment at (866) 533-0612. You can also fill out our contact form.