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May 15th, 2023 by Miami Back & Neck Specialists
From The Doctor | What types of artificial discs are available, and how do they differ in terms of design and materials?
Surgery known as total disc replacement (TDR) is performed to replace a damaged or deteriorated intervertebral disc with a prosthetic disc. The artificial discs on the market now come in a wide variety of designs and materials. This review will examine the various artificial discs used in TDR and discuss their similarities and differences in terms of construction.
A ball-and-socket design, the first kind of artificial disc, consists of metal endplates implanted into the vertebrae at either end and a plastic insert between them. Often employed in cervical TDR, its design provides for a great deal of freedom of movement. Prestige LP cervical disc is an artificial disc.
Sliding-core designs, which use two metal endplates and a core composed of metal or plastic that may slide between them, are another sort of artificial disc. This design is frequently employed in lumbar TDR due to its flexibility. The artificial disc developed at the Charité Medical Center is a good example of this kind.
The elastomeric design is the third category of artificial disc and is composed of metal endplates and a rubber-like elastomeric core. Often utilized in cervical TDR, its design provides a comfortable degree of mobility. Artificial cervical discs like the Mobi-C exist.
The hydrogel artificial disc is constructed from metal endplates and a water-absorbing hydrogel core. Lumbar TDR often employs this design due to its restricted mobility. The ProDisc-L is an artificial disc that fits this category.
Moreover, artificial discs can be made from a wide variety of materials. The endplates are often constructed of metals like titanium or high-strength plastics, whereas the core can be made of metal, plastic, elastomer, or hydrogel. The artificial disc’s longevity, mobility, and biocompatibility can all be impacted by the materials used to construct it.
To sum up, there are many different synthetic discs out there for TDR, each with its own construction and materials. Disc replacement options vary from patient to patient based on criteria including age, activity level, and the surgeon’s personal taste. Patients should consult with their doctors to figure out the best surgical choice for them, as is the case with any medical condition.
































































