Dr. Anthony Virella, MD, FACS, Medical Director and Founder of Virella Spine Surgery, specializes in treating patients with his nationally-recognized minimally invasive Back, Spine, and Neck treatment.
Dr. Virella offers his innovative Artificial Disc Replacement surgery as a minimally invasive procedure, designed to replace a damaged or worn spinal disc with an artificial disc. This surgery is beneficial for those suffering from chronic back pain caused by degenerative disc disease, and back pain caused primarily by one or two intervertebral discs.. The goal of artificial disc replacement surgery is to reduce pain while preserving range of motion and stability in the spine.
In most cases, Dr, Virella uses fluoroscopy, a type of X-ray imaging, to guide him as he implants the artificial disc. The procedure begins with a small incision and removing a portion of the damaged disc. The artificial disc is then inserted and secured in place.
The benefits of artificial disc replacement surgery are numerous. It can provide relief from chronic pain and help maintain the spine's range of motion, allowing patients to remain active and enjoy a better quality of life. It also reduces the risk of long-term complications, such as spinal instability and nerve damage, which can occur with a more invasive spinal fusion procedure.
Artificial disc replacement surgery is considered to be a safe procedure, with a low risk of infection, bleeding, and other complications. The recovery time is typically shorter than with other spinal surgeries, allowing patients to return to their normal activities more quickly.
Patients who undergo artificial disc replacement surgery often experience a significant reduction in their pain levels, allowing them to increase their activity and mobility. In addition, the artificial discs are designed to last for many years, eliminating the need for additional surgeries in the future.
Artificial disc replacement surgery can also reduce the risk of spinal instability, a condition that can cause chronic back pain and other complications. The artificial discs are designed to mimic the natural movement of the spine, providing stability and support in the disc space.
Artificial disc replacement surgery can also help to reduce the risk of adjacent segment disease. This is a condition in which the discs adjacent to the surgically replaced disc can be affected by the increased stress and pressure placed on them. It can also help to improve posture and alignment of the spine. By replacing the damaged disc with an artificial one, the spine can be better supported and the correct posture can be maintained, reducing the strain on the surrounding muscles and tissues.
Artificial disc replacement surgery can also provide relief for people who are not candidates for other forms of spinal surgery. This includes those who have spinal deformities or conditions affecting the spinal cord, such as tumors or spondylolisthesis. (Benefits of Artifical Disc Replament surgery will vary for each individual, and Dr. Virella will make a determination if you are a candidate for this procedure after proper examination).
Artificial disc replacement surgery has many benefits for those suffering from chronic back pain caused by degenerative disc disease. It can reduce pain, maintain range of motion, prevent long-term complications, and improve posture and alignment. Additionally, it can provide relief for those who are not candidates for other forms of spinal surgery.
To schedule a consultation with Southern California Spine Surgeon, Dr. Anthony Virella, please call (805) 449-0088, or send us a message online.
