Disc Replacement

Disc Replacement services offered in Highland and Merrillville, IN

If degenerative changes in your spine have affected the health of your spinal discs, you may be a candidate for disc replacement surgery. Dr. Mohammad S. Shukairy understands how chronic pain from damaged discs can impact your life and offers solutions at his practice in Highland and Merrillville, Indiana. Dr. Shukairy specializes in minimally invasive techniques that replace damaged discs with artificial devices to improve your spine health and its overall function. Find out more about the benefits of a disc replacement by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.

What is a disc replacement?

A disc replacement is a surgical procedure that focuses on the removal and replacement of damaged spinal discs. These protective discs sit between the vertebrae of your spine and absorb the shock of your movements.

Over time, damage can occur to these discs due to trauma or because of age-related, degenerative changes in your spine.

Why do I need disc replacement surgery?

You may be a candidate for disc replacement surgery if you have disc-related damage or disease in your cervical spine or lumbar spine.

Your spinal discs consist of a tough outer exterior and a soft, gel-like interior. When inflammation or nearby structures put pressure on a disc, the center can push outward and through the surface, a condition known as a herniated disc.

The gel can then compress surrounding nerves, resulting in chronic pain, tingling, and numbness in your neck that radiates into your arms and hands.

You may also benefit from disc replacement surgery if you have degenerative disc disease, an age-related condition that causes the gradual breakdown of your spinal discs.

Dr. Shukairy reviews your diagnosis, symptoms, and medical history to determine if disc replacement surgery is right for you.

What’s involved in a disc replacement?

During a disc replacement surgery, Dr. Shukairy uses minimally invasive techniques and small incisions to access the damaged disc and remove it.

After the removal, Dr. Shukairy inserts an artificial disc into the space that functions like your natural disc. He may use a prosthetic device that replaces the whole disc or a device that replaces only the nucleus or center of the disc.

A nucleus replacement is often beneficial for those in the early stages of degenerative disc disease. In contrast, a total disc replacement is usually an option if you are in the advanced stages of the disease or have significant damage due to herniation in the disc.

Future existing technologies for disc replacement include biologic disc regeneration and replacement.

To find out if you’re a candidate for disc replacement surgery, contact Dr. Mohammad S. Shukairy by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.