What are the indications for artificial disc replacement?

Artificial disc products that are in development - or are in use in other countries - are typically intended for use in patients with the following indications:

• Diagnosis of degenerative disc disease (typically at a single level)

• Are between the ages of 18 and 60

• Suffer from low back pain as the major complaint (rather than leg pain)

• Have not responded to a minimum of six months of conservative treatments (such as physical therapy, pain medications)

• Are candidates for spine surgery (such as a lumbar fusion)

Overall, the current indications for implantation of an artificial disc are quite similar to indications for lumbar spine fusion.