Surgical Options For Degenerative Disc

with Stephen Robbins, M.D., Spine Surgeon, Columbia St. Mary’s Spine Center

Posted: May 1, 2006

In the past, people suffering with degenerative disc disease have had few treatment options that would allow them to return to normal activities. With degenerative disease, cartilage in between the vertebrae break down, causing pinched nerves, among other issues. Over time, the deterioration can cause severe pain and create significant disability.

Traditionally, physicians have treated degenerative disc disease by removing the disc and fusing the vertebrae together using bone graft. Outcomes were good for some people, but others had continuing pain. A fusion decreases a person’s natural mobility and causes added strain on the other discs. This can result in premature deterioration of adjacent discs and require further surgery.

Now, however, a new and successful non-fusion procedure has been used in Europe for several years and just recently released in the United States. Artificial disc replacement with the FDA-approved Charité artificial disc allows surgeons to replace the deteriorated disc without fusing bone together, keeping the back flexible, and restoring normal spine mechanics.

After being the first to perform this procedure in Wisconsin, I’ve seen the Charité disc replacement procedure offer a true alternative to fusion. Because it leaves people with greater mobility, they are able to rehabilitate faster, return to work sooner, and function with the same strength and capability as before their initial back problems.

When is this procedure most effective?
Artificial disc replacement works best for those ages 20 to 50, and is indicated for lumbar discs in the lower back. In the future, devices will be available for multiple levels and for the cervical spine.

Another new option for degenerative disc disease involves a motion sparing device that limits the motion of the disc and reduces pain. This device can be placed through minimally invasive techniques that have been championed at the Milwaukee Institute of Minimally Invasive Surgery, (www.mimis.us).

What are the outcomes from such procedures?
While the Charité artificial disc has been used for only a year or so in the United States, 12-year outcome studies in Europe show good results from the procedures. The long-term study results emphasize that people return to work and home quickly with good pain relief.

Stephen Robbins, M.D., Spine Surgeon
Columbia St. Mary’s Spine Center
414-961-5005

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