Spine Arthroplasty: The Benefits of Disc Replacement Over Fusion
When a damaged disc is the cause back or neck pain can take over your life, it can make even simple things—like sitting at work, picking up your kids, or sleeping through the night—feel impossible. For some people, surgery becomes the next step when nothing else helps.
For years, spinal fusion was the go-to option. It works, but it comes with some downsides. Now, there’s a newer approach that often makes more sense: disc replacement, or spine arthroplasty. Instead of locking bones together, this surgery replaces the bad disc with an artificial one that keeps your spine moving naturally. At Saville Spine Institute in Palm Beach Gardens, our doctors specialize in these motion-preserving procedures, helping patients get relief and stay active.
Fusion vs. Disc Replacement
- Fusion: Removes the damaged disc and permanently joins two vertebrae. Pain can improve, but you lose movement in that area, and nearby discs can wear out faster over time.
- Disc Replacement: Removes the damaged disc but replaces it with an artificial one that allows movement, preserving flexibility and protecting surrounding discs.
Why Disc Replacement Can Be Better
Here’s why many patients prefer disc replacement:
- Keeps your spine moving. Fusion can make the spine stiff. Disc replacement preserves motion.
- Protects nearby discs. Normal movement reduces stress on adjacent levels.
- Faster recovery. Many patients return to normal activities sooner than with fusion.
- Lower chance of future surgeries. Preserving motion helps prevent extra wear and tear.
- Better long-term outcomes. Patients often report improved mobility, less pain, and greater satisfaction.
Who It’s Right For
Disc replacement isn’t for everyone. It’s ideal for patients with disc damage in the neck (cervical) or lower back (lumbar) who haven’t found relief through therapy, injections, or medications. Severe arthritis, osteoporosis, or spinal instability may rule it out. A thorough evaluation is the first step to see if disc replacement is a fit.
Meet the Saville Spine Institute Team
At Saville Spine Institute, you get care from a team with decades of experience:
- Dr. Philip Saville, MD – Board-certified spine surgeon, expert in minimally invasive and motion-preserving procedures, including cervical and lumbar disc replacements. Helps patients return to active, pain-free lives.
- Dr. Lawrence Gorfine, MD – Board-certified in Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine with 25+ years of experience. Former president of multiple medical societies, educator, and leader in pain management.
- Dr. Jason Meldau, MD – Board-certified spine surgeon who combines advanced surgical techniques with non-surgical care, tailoring treatment to each patient’s goals.
Together, they offer comprehensive care—from non-surgical options to advanced procedures like disc replacement—so patients can get the solution that works best for them.
Looking Ahead
Disc replacement is changing spine surgery. It’s not just about pain relief—it’s about keeping your spine moving naturally and protecting it long-term. For the right patients, it’s a true game-changer.
Take the Next Step
If you’ve been living with back or neck pain and want options that preserve movement and function, it’s time to learn more about disc replacement. At Saville Spine Institute, our team guides patients through every step, combining expertise and compassion to help you regain your life.
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✨ Bottom line: Fusion is still an option, but for many patients, disc replacement offers faster recovery, less stress on the spine, and the freedom to move naturally again.
