Total disc replacement

Total disc replacement (TDR), or artificial disc replacement (ADR), is a type of arthroplasty in which degenerated intervertebral discs in the vertebral column are replaced with artificial disc implants in the lumbar (lower) or cervical (upper) spine. The procedure is used to treat chronic, severe low back pain and cervical pain resulting from degenerative disc disease. Disc replacement is also an alternative intervention for symptomatic disc herniation with associated arm and hand, or leg symptoms (radicular pain).

TDR has been developed as an alternative to spinal fusion, with the goal of pain reduction or elimination, while still allowing motion throughout the spine. Faster recoveries after surgery have also been widely reported by surgeons. Another possible benefit is the prevention of premature breakdown in adjacent levels of the spine, a potential risk in fusion surgeries. Recent studies have shown a strong correlation between providing motion in the spine and avoiding adjacent segment degeneration.