The Freedom® Disc Replacement implant is a device that has been designed to replace a damaged or degenerated disc in the spine. It is an alternative to traditional spinal fusion surgery, which involves fusing two or more vertebrae together with a bone graft, hardware, or a combination of both. The Freedom® Disc Replacement is meant to preserve motion at the treated level and provide relief from chronic back pain. In this article, we will explore the features, benefits, and potential risks of the Freedom® Disc Replacement implant.
Features:
The Freedom® Disc Replacement implant is made up of two components: the upper and lower plates, which are made of a biocompatible metal alloy. These plates are designed to attach to the vertebrae above and below the damaged disc. The center of the implant consists of a high-density plastic core that is designed to mimic the natural shock-absorbing properties of a healthy disc.
Benefits:
The Freedom® Disc Replacement implant has several benefits over traditional spinal fusion surgery. Firstly, it preserves motion at the treated level, which can reduce the risk of adjacent level disease. Secondly, it can provide relief from chronic back pain without the need for long-term pain medication. Thirdly, it can reduce the risk of hardware-related complications, such as hardware migration, loosening, or breakage. Fourthly, it can result in a faster recovery time, as patients can usually resume normal activities within a few weeks after surgery.
Risks:
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with the Freedom® Disc Replacement implant. These risks include infection, bleeding, nerve damage, implant failure, and the need for revision surgery. Additionally, because the implant allows for motion at the treated level, there is a risk of implant wear and tear over time, which could require further surgery in the future.
Conclusion:
The Freedom® Disc Replacement implant is a viable option for patients suffering from chronic back pain due to a damaged or degenerated disc in the spine. It offers several benefits over traditional spinal fusion surgery, including the preservation of motion at the treated level, relief from chronic pain, and a faster recovery time. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with the Freedom® Disc Replacement implant, and patients should discuss these risks with their surgeon before deciding to undergo the procedure.
Disc Replacement has been growing in popularity and is now used regularly as an alternative to spinal fusion surgery.