Disc implants are the innovative alternative to traditional spinal fusion, enabling patients with back pain and disc damage to regain natural mobility and significantly improve their quality of life. At the Apex-Spine Spine Center, a leading center for minimally invasive spinal surgery with approximately 150 implantations annually, state-of-the-art surgical technologies and experienced specialists are employed. Learn how artificial discs work, for whom they are suitable, what advantages they offer compared to fusion, and how the gentle procedure is performed – explained clearly and with a focus on safety, rehabilitation, and long-term success.

Persistent and chronic back pain is often caused by damaged or worn intervertebral discs. This can significantly impair the quality of life of those affected. Spinal fusion, also known as spondylodesis, is often considered the standard treatment for these problems. However, modern spinal surgery offers a superior alternative with the intervertebral disc implant, which can restore natural mobility. An artificial disc offers many advantages.

What is a disc prosthesis and how exactly does it work?

The term "artificial disc" is used in medicine synonymously with disc prosthesis and disc implant. In this procedure, the damaged disc is completely removed and replaced with an artificial implant capable of taking over the disc's natural function as a cushion. The joint replacement system consists of two metal plates that are attached to the vertebral bodies.

A plastic gliding core between these two plates allows pain-free movement in all directions, thus functioning similarly to a healthy joint. Unlike spinal fusion, a disc implant preserves the natural mobility of the affected spinal segment.

Why is an artificial disc better than fusion of the area?

Precise diagnostics are crucial for determining the appropriate procedure. The experts at Apex-Spine possess extensive expertise in this area and can therefore significantly contribute to the success of the treatment. A disc replacement is particularly suitable in cases of advanced disc degeneration or a herniated disc, provided that instability has not yet developed. The advantages over spinal fusion are clear and include:

• Maintaining mobility within the natural range of motion
• The protection of the adjacent vertebral segments, which are subjected to significantly greater stress due to stiffening.
• Faster rehabilitation, as pain relief can be achieved significantly earlier.

Of course, there are also cases in which disc implants are not an option. For this reason, it is important to consult experts and discuss the possible treatments with them in detail.

Your path to pain-free mobility through a disc prosthesis

Deciding to undergo spinal surgery requires careful and thorough evaluation. The experts at Apex-Spine provide ongoing professional diagnostics to determine if you are a candidate for a disc implant. With approximately 150 disc implant procedures performed annually, the clinic is one of the most experienced centers in Germany. The surgeons at Apex-Spine utilize state-of-the-art, minimally invasive techniques for disc implant surgery, which significantly reduces recovery time.

Post-operative treatment following disc replacement surgery is also geared towards rapid healing and recovery. Gentle movements, physiotherapy, and targeted exercises are intended to help regain spinal mobility as quickly as possible.

A tailored treatment plan that focuses on maximizing patient benefit is a central element of all our efforts. If back pain is so severe that it significantly impacts daily life, a disc replacement may be the right solution.

Don't hesitate to take the first step and seek professional help. The experts at the Apex-Spine Center are happy to advise you and offer diagnostics and treatment to help you become pain-free.