Artificial Disc Replacement

Artificial disc replacement removes a damaged spinal disc and replaces it with a motion-preserving implant. Unlike a fusion, which joins two vertebrae permanently, a disc replacement is designed to keep movement at that level of the spine.

Dr. Robert Ames, a fellowship-trained orthopedic spine surgeon, performs cervical (neck) and lumbar (lower back) disc replacement for patients in Sewell, Cherry Hill, and across South Jersey.

Who is a candidate?

Disc replacement may be an option for patients with arm or leg pain from a herniated disc, or with disc degeneration at one or two levels, when physical therapy, medication, and injections have not provided enough relief. It is not right for everyone. Significant arthritis in the facet joints, instability, or osteoporosis can make fusion or another procedure the better choice.

What to expect

The procedure is done through a small incision. Many cervical disc replacement patients go home the same day or the next morning. Dr. Ames reviews your imaging in detail and explains whether disc replacement, fusion, or non-surgical care fits your situation.

Common questions

Is disc replacement better than fusion? For the right patient, it preserves motion and may reduce stress on neighboring levels. For others, fusion is more reliable. The decision depends on your anatomy and diagnosis.

How long is recovery? Most patients return to desk work within a few weeks. Heavier activity resumes gradually over the following months.

Schedule a consultation

Call (609) 267-9400 to see Dr. Ames at Virtua Reconstructive Orthopaedics in Sewell or Cherry Hill, NJ.

Related: Herniated Disc & Sciatica · Spinal Stenosis · Endoscopic Spine Surgery · Home