First Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery in Rhode
Island
 A
revolutionary procedure designed to ease lower back
pain is now available in Rhode Island. Steven
Blazar, MD, associate chief of orthopedics at The
Miriam Hospital, performed the first artificial
disc replacement surgery on a 29-year-old woman
who had been experiencing chronic, agonizing back pain.
Artificial disc replacement is designed specifically
for those who experience chronic lower back pain due
to degenerative disc disease. The disease occurs when
the spinal discs deteriorate, causing two vertebrate
to rub against each other, resulting in severe pain.
During the surgery, the degenerative disc is removed
and replaced with an artificial disc. The new disc is
as flexible as a natural spinal disc, so patients retain
their range of motion in the lower back.
Previously, spinal fusion surgery--two vertebrae fused
together--was the only surgical option for patients
with degenerative disc disease. Recovery from spinal
fusion surgery averaged 6 to 12 months and required
the patient to wear a back brace to help the bone heal.
Artificial disc replacement surgery cuts the recovery
time and eliminates the need for a brace. Patients can
typically resume their normal lifestyle, including driving
and working, 3 to 4 weeks after artificial disc replacement
surgery.
Used in Europe extensively since 1987, the FDA only
recently approved the disc in October 2004 for use in
the United States.
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