Who Should Receive the ProDisc-L implant?
You should discuss the options available to you with your doctor. Only your doctor can decide whether you are a candidate for receiving the ProDisc-L Total Disc Replacement. In order to be a candidate to receive the ProDisc-L Total Disc Replacement you must first meet the following minimum requirements:
- Must be suffering from Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) at only one level between L3 and S1. DDD is defined as a disc that is worn out or has become injured and is causing pain. This determination is made based on history, physical examination and x-rays
- Should have at least six months of conservative treatment (i.e. medications, physical therapy, etc.) without relief of symptoms
- Vertebrae must be dimensionally large enough to support the device
- Must not have an active infection, either throughout your body or localized to your spine
- Must have good bone quality (no osteoporosis or osteopenia)
- Must not be allergic to cobalt chromium, molybdenum, polyethelene, titanium, or tantalum
- Must be old enough that the bones in your body are mature and no longer growing
- Must not have spinal anatomy that would prevent implantation of the device or cause the device to be unstable in your body, as determined by your doctor
Who Should NOT Receive the ProDisc-L Total Disc Replacement?
Your occupation or activity level, your weight, the condition of other levels of your spine, whether or not you are pregnant, and any allergies you have may influence whether you should have the ProDisc-L Total Disc Replacement surgery. If any of these factors apply to you or if you think that you have any special health issues, please make sure to inform your doctor.
Things to consider before you choose to have back surgery
The resources provided on this site are for informational purposes only. This website is not a replacement for professional medical advice. You should discuss both surgical and nonsurgical treatment options with your doctor. Only your doctor is qualified to diagnose and treat your condition.
Problems can occur when you have spine surgery, including surgery with ProDisc implants. There is a risk that the surgery may not make you feel better or may cause you to feel worse. If this happens, you may need another surgery to help you feel better.