Thursday
Mar102011
Artificial Disk Replacement - Common Medical Tourism Procedures
Definition:
- Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR) or Total Disc Replacement (TDR) surgery is performed to treat chronic, severe lower back pain and cervical pain caused by degenerative changes of the spinal disc. The surgery involves replacement of the degenerated intervertebral discs with artificial disc in the lumbar or cervical spine. The procedure is one type of Arthroplasty.
- The FDA approved the use of an artificial disc made by Charite, to replace degenerated spinal disc as a treatment option for chronic back pain in 2004 at United States, How ever, the artificial disc surgery is been performed in Europe for many years. The PRODISC-L had got approval from FDA in 2006.
Advantages and Disadvantages:
Advantages
- Artificial disc replacement is considered as an alternate to spinal fusion surgery to relieve back pain without restricting the movement of whole spine.
- It prevents the premature breakdown of adjacent vertebrae.
- Different clinical studies have showed that compare to spinal fusion, patients are more satisfied with the ADR surgery result.
Disadvantages
- However, the ADR is contraindicated for patients suffering from osteoporosis, joint diseases, and infection and had an allergy to stainless steel.
The long term studies and follow ups are required to fully understand the potential advantages and risk associated with ADR.
The content of this guidebook is purely for informational purposes and is intended as a reference guide. though utmost care has been taken, we don't guarantee that content is error free. This book should not be used as a medical guide for self-diagnosis and treatment or constitute professional legal or business advice of any kind. Readers should seek the care of a qualified professional with any concerns or questions they might have after reading this guidebook (online or print).Read Complete Disclaimer at http://www.drprem.com/disclaimer Do Not copy. Content protected by smart software.
Note: Medical Tourism is often interchanged with the terms 'Medical Travel' 'Health Travel' 'Healthcare Travel' 'Health Tourism' 'Cross Border Healthcare' 'Wellness Tourism' and 'Global Healthcare'. Read more about these terms in guidebook.
Reader Comments