Disc Replacement

Vertrae® Kamal R. Woods, MD, MBA, FAANS Our Services Disc Replacement

Vertrae®

Kamal R. Woods, MD, MBA, FAANS

Neurosurgeon located in Miamisburg, OH

Problems with your spinal discs can lead to a number of painful and concerning symptoms. At Vertrae® in Dayton, Ohio, the team offers disc replacement to effectively relieve your symptoms and help get your life back to normal. Led by board-certified neurosurgeon Kamal Woods, MD, MBA, FAANS, the practice specializes in patient-centered, personalized care. To find out if disc replacement is right for you, call the office or book online today.

Disc Replacement Q & A

Why might I need a disc replacement?

A spinal disc is a rubbery pad that’s positioned between each of your vertebrae. Your discs serve a number of functions, including absorbing shock and allowing for mobility of your spine. 

Your discs provide cushioning for your vertebrae and prevent the bones in your spine from rubbing against each other. 

Problems with your discs can lead to issues like severe pain, tingling, numbness, and limited mobility. Age and osteoarthritis in the spine (degenerative disc disease) are the biggest contributors to disc problems. Over time, your discs can wear out and lose their cushioning. 

Also known as arthroplasty, disc replacement is a method of treating damaged and worn-out spinal discs by swapping them out for artificial discs. 

What does disc replacement involve?

If you suffer from problems with your spinal discs, Dr. Woods can help you determine if disc replacement is right for you. During your appointment, you and Dr. Woods discuss your condition as well as any treatments you’ve received in the past. 

Dr. Woods also performs a thorough evaluation including a physical exam, review of your medical history, and imaging tests such as an X-ray, MRI, or CT scan. 

Most disc replacement surgeries take place in the lower back (lumbar). Once you’re under anesthesia, Dr. Woods makes an incision in your abdomen to access your damaged disc. After removing your damaged disc, he places your new artificial disc and closes your incision. 

Disc replacement surgery typically takes 2-3 hours. Your new disc relieves any pressure on nearby nerves and restores flexibility to your spine. For some people, disc replacement surgery is an alternative to spinal fusion. 

What are the risks of disc replacement?

Like all surgical procedures, disc replacement does come with risks, including:

  • Infection
  • Dislocation or dislodging of the replacement disc
  • Spinal stenosis
  • Increased stiffness of the spine


Dr. Woods can help you understand both the risks and benefits of disc replacement. He’s one of the most experienced surgeons in Ohio when it comes to disc replacement surgery, having completed hundreds of successful procedures. 

To learn more about disc replacement, call the Vertrae® office nearest you or book your appointment online today. 

 
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