Is Private Lumbar Disc Replacement Available in Canada?

Is Private Lumbar Disc Replacement Available in Canada?

Artificial disc replacement is a treatment therapy used when all other traditional therapies have failed and only after extensive testing is completed.  The testing would include a discogram, which is aided by x-ray technology.  This test can determine whether the patient’s pain is directly caused by a degenerative disc.

Degenerative disc disease means the disc between the vertebrae has worn down or lost some or all of its cushioning.  The discs act as shock absorbers and when there is little to no cushion, it creates pain.  Artificial disc replacement surgery replaces the bad disc in hopes of better mobility and pain relief by restoring the disc to its original height.  This provides less risk for the adjoining discs to degenerate as seen in spinal fusions.  Lumbar disc replacement can only be done on 2 of the discs, the last two which are L4-5 or L5-S1.  It is also reserved for those patients with discogenic pain, ie. a form of low back pain caused by chemically or mechanically damaged intervertebral discs.

Finding a private spine surgeon in Canada is very tricky because there are really only a couple of neurosurgeons practicing on a private basis.  Private lumbar disc replacement is very specialized and requires an experienced neurosurgeon who has had extensive training doing them.  Currently, we do not know of anyone doing these on a private basis in Canada so going to the US would be the next likely option.  Because it is so specialized and the patient needs to meet very specific criteria, there are not as many neurosurgeons doing lumbar disc replacement as there are cervical disc replacement.

If you have been told you are a candidate for private lumbar disc replacement, contact us and we can facilitate this surgery for you with an experienced neurosurgeon.  We can be reached at 877-344-3544 or info@healthvantis.com.