Chronic lower back pain caused by degenerative disc disease can significantly impact your quality of life, limiting your mobility and interfering with daily activities. Lumbar artificial disc replacement (ADR) is an advanced surgical solution that relieves pain and preserves the natural motion of your spine so that you can live life normally.
Dr. Rojeh Melikian specializes in this innovative procedure, helping patients in Marina del Rey, Newport Beach and Los Angeles regain their active lifestyles.
What Is Lumbar Disc Replacement?
Lumbar ADR is a minimally invasive procedure that treats degenerative disc disease in the lower back. Unlike traditional spinal fusion surgery, which eliminates motion at the affected segment, lumbar ADR involves removing the damaged disc and replacing it with a specialized prosthetic device that mimics the function of a healthy disc.
Symptoms Treated With Lumbar ADR
Dr. Melikian may recommend lumbar ADR if you are experiencing:
- Chronic lower back pain caused by degenerative disc disease
- Herniated discs that have not healed with traditional treatment
- Persistent pain radiating into the legs due to nerve compression
- Decreased disc height affecting spinal alignment
- Limited mobility and reduced quality of life
Ideal candidates are typically between 18 and 65 years old, have tried traditional treatments without success and have disc degeneration in the lumbar spine.
How the Procedure Works
Dr. Melikian performs lumbar ADR using advanced, minimally invasive techniques. The procedure typically involves accessing the spine through a small incision in the abdomen, allowing him to approach the affected disc from the front of the spine. This anterior approach provides excellent visualization and access to the disc space while minimizing disruption to surrounding muscles and tissues.
Once the diseased disc is carefully removed, Dr. Melikian prepares the disc space and inserts the artificial disc prosthesis. The implant is precisely positioned to restore proper disc height, decompress any affected nerves, and maintain the spine’s natural range of motion.
The entire procedure is performed with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring optimal placement and alignment.
Lumbar Disc Replacement Recovery and Results
Recovery from lumbar ADR varies for each patient. On average, patients can expect to return to light activities within a few weeks.
Dr. Melikian and his team will provide personalized recovery guidelines and work closely with you throughout the healing process to ensure the best possible outcome.
Benefits of Artificial Disc Replacement
Thanks to lumbar ADR, patients often experience more natural movement and flexibility in their lower back because the procedure helps maintain proper biomechanics, which may also reduce the likelihood of adjacent segment degeneration.
Additionally, most patients experience significant pain relief and improved function following lumbar disc replacement. The minimally invasive approach typically results in less post-procedural discomfort, faster recovery, and allows the procedure to be completed in an outpatient surgical center.
Schedule Your Consultation With Dr. Melikian
If you are suffering from chronic lower back pain due to degenerative disc disease, lumbar ADR may offer the relief you need. Schedule a consultation today to discuss whether the lumbar ADR procedure is right for you.