ADRs (artificial disc replacements) are useful to retain motion in cervical levels that still have at least 50% retained disc height, some retained motion and no slip or instability. They will eventually wear out as all movable mechanical implanted devices will so plans in the future have to account for that need to eventually replace them. It may be 15-20 years before the need to replace them but unfortunately, I seem to be attracting many failed ADRs lately from other institutions that are only 2-4 years old.
I like the Prestige LP from Medtronic as they seem to be designed appropriately and are approved for 2 levels (if necessary). The Mobi C and Prodisc C are also acceptable implants that should give reasonable longevity. I have seen multiple Prodisc C failures but considering the number of implants out there, probably an acceptable failure rate.
Dr. Corenman
PLEASE REMEMBER, THIS FORUM IS MEANT TO PROVIDE GENERAL INFORMATION ON SPINE ANATOMY, CONDITIONS AND TREATMENTS. TO GET AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS, YOU MUST VISIT A QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL IN PERSON.
Donald Corenman, MD, DC is a highly-regarded spine surgeon, considered an expert in the area of neck and back pain. Trained as both a Medical Doctor and Doctor of Chiropractic, Dr. Corenman earned academic appointments as Clinical Assistant Professor and Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, and his research on spine surgery and rehabilitation has resulted in the publication of multiple peer-reviewed articles and two books.
