Is Disc Replacement Surgery Right for Me?

When chronic back or neck pain interferes with daily life, artificial disc replacement (ADR) surgery can offer a path forward—preserving mobility while relieving pain. As a world-renowned spinal neurosurgeon, pioneer in Advanced Disc Replacement, and founder of ADR Spine, Dr. Todd H. Lanman has helped thousands of patients reclaim their lives without resorting to fusion. Here’s what to know about whether ADR might be the right choice.

What Is Disc Replacement Surgery?

Artificial Disc Replacement is a motion-preserving surgical alternative to spinal fusion. During the procedure, a damaged disc is removed and replaced with an artificial one that mimics the function of a healthy disc—allowing for natural movement of the spine. Unlike fusion, which limits mobility by permanently joining two or more vertebrae, ADR is designed to maintain flexibility and reduce stress on adjacent segments of the spine.

Who Is a Candidate for Disc Replacement Surgery?

Conditions That May Qualify:

Candidates for ADR may include patients with:

• Degenerative disc disease (DDD)
• Herniated discs unresponsive to conservative care
• Persistent neck or back pain linked to disc degeneration

Factors That May Disqualify You:

ADR may not be suitable for patients with:

• Severe spinal arthritis or osteoporosis
• Spinal instability or deformities
• Prior fusion surgery at the target level
• Underlying health conditions that could impact healing

Benefits of Disc Replacement Surgery

Compared to traditional fusion, the benefits of ADR include:

• Preservation of motion at the affected segment
• Lower risk of adjacent segment degeneration
• Faster recovery and shorter rehabilitation timelines
• Improved long-term mobility and quality of life

Many patients return to active, fulfilling lifestyles—whether that means hiking, cycling, or simply playing with their children again.

Potential Risks and Considerations

As with any surgery, there are risks to consider:

• Infection, nerve injury, or complications related to the implant
• Possible need for revision surgery over time
• A structured recovery process that includes physical therapy

A thorough diagnostic process ensures that each patient’s anatomy, goals, and any unique risk factors are fully evaluated before recommending surgery.

How to Determine If ADR Is Right for You

Determining the right path forward starts with a comprehensive consultation. At ADR Spine, this includes:

• High-resolution imaging (MRI/CT)
• Physical and neurological assessments
• A detailed review of lifestyle, goals, and health history

Patients are encouraged to come prepared with questions about outcomes, device longevity, recovery, and their specific condition.

What to Expect During and After the Procedure

The Surgery Process

Artificial disc replacement is a highly precise and technically advanced procedure, typically performed under general anesthesia. Through a small, targeted incision—usually at the front of the neck for cervical disc replacement or the abdomen for lumbar cases—the surgeon carefully accesses the spine, removing the damaged disc while preserving surrounding muscles, ligaments, and healthy bone structures.

The space left behind is then filled with a state-of-the-art artificial disc, designed to replicate the natural biomechanics of the spine. ADR Spine exclusively uses FDA-approved artificial discs with proven durability, stability, and motion-preserving capabilities. These implants are the result of extensive research and clinical trials—many of which Dr. Lanman has led as a principal investigator.

The procedure typically lasts between one and two hours and is performed using microsurgical and fluoroscopic techniques for optimal precision. Most patients are up and walking the same day and, in many cases, discharged within 24 hours. The goal is to restore motion, reduce pain, and enable a return to an active life—with as little disruption as possible.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Most patients return home within 24 hours. Recovery includes:

• Gradual return to activity over 4–6 weeks
• Personalized physical therapy plans
• Follow-up imaging to confirm proper placement and healing

Many individuals experience noticeable improvements in pain and mobility within the first few weeks.

Why Choose ADR Spine for Disc Replacement Surgery?

ADR Spine specializes exclusively in motion-preserving spine solutions. Dr. Todd H. Lanman brings:

• Over 30 years of experience performing ADR surgeries
• Leadership in clinical trials for many of today’s FDA-approved devices
• A global reputation for treating high-performing professionals, actors, athletes, and dignitaries

The practice’s approach combines cutting-edge technology with a deeply personalized 4D Health strategy, developed by Dr. Lanman, which considers each patient’s age, activity level, hormonal health, and overall lifestyle.

Schedule a Consultation with ADR Spine

If you’re considering disc replacement surgery, take the first step toward a pain-free, mobile life. Schedule a consultation with ADR Spine to learn whether ADR is the right solution for you.