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Disc Nucleus Replacement
What is Disc Nucleus Replacement?While various forms of this procedure have been experimented with for many years, modern nucleus replacement is a whole new specialty within the back pain industry. Complete disc replacement involves removing the entire damaged or degenerated organic disc and setting a complete artificial disc in its place. Nucleus replacement typically keeps the organic annulus fibrosus in place and only replaces the soft inner core of the disc. This core structure, the nucleus pulposus, is responsible for maintaining the height and flexibility of each vertebral level. Replacing the nucleus is a minimalistic approach to herniated disc surgery which shows great promise for the future.Nucleus Pulposus Replacement IndicationsNucleus pulposus replacement is considered for patients with herniated or ruptured discs. It is also an option for patients with advanced degenerative disc disease. Nucleus replacement is not used to treat other forms of back pain; it is reserved for confirmed cases of disc related pain only. Remember that degenerative disc disease is a completely normal and expected process which is generally asymptomatic and rarely requires treatment of any kind, especially surgical modalities. Herniated discs may be symptomatic for a time, but are also unlikely to create chronic pain syndromes which require surgical intervention.Disc Nucleus Replacement AdviceI like the idea of nucleus replacement, just like I am fond of the idea of complete disc replacement. Both of these surgical techniques seek to cure pain by restoring normal spinal function. This is a far better ideology than the antiquated and ridiculous theory of using spinal fusion for disc pain conditions. I believe there will be a bright future for nucleus replacement and this type of procedure might even have more promise than the current medical fascination with full disc replacement. That being said, I still must make it clear that I am generally ANTI-SURGERY and find it to be an overused and mostly inappropriate treatment for most forms of back pain. Make sure to exhaust all conservative therapy options before considering herniated disc surgery and also remember to learn all the facts concerning any procedure you are considering. This is a matter better accomplished through independent research, since your surgeon is bound to show partiality to their recommended procedure…11/27/08 Revised 12/7/09
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