Lumbar Artificial Disk Replacement (ADR)

What is Lumbar Artificial Disk Replacement?

A diseased disc can be replaced with an artificial disc rather than a fusion procedure. A specialized surgical approach through the front or abdomen is performed to expose the anterior spine. A vascular surgeon makes a small incision like a hernia incision (3 cm.) or longer in the mid- line just below the umbilicus. Gentle dissection and retraction of the blood vessels in front of the spine allows expose of the diseased disc. The disc is excised and completely removed.

A spine surgeon specifically trained in total disc replacement prepares the disc space to deliver the implant. A perfectly sized disc implant is chosen and placed into the disc space. This replaces the total disc with a mobile device that articulates like a total hip or knee replacement. Typically, the lower lumbar discs (L2-3,L3-4,L4-5, and L5-S1) are amenable to total disc replacement.

Patients can walk immediately following surgery. If performed in an outpatient setting, the patient is released a few hours after the procedure. One- or two-night stay in hospital may be required if more than one level is performed. Two weeks of limited activity wearing a lumbar brace for comfort is recommended. Return to normal activity and exercise is anticipated by six weeks.

Patient Testimonials

"First off, I believe Dr. Kropf helped save my life! It's been 6 months since I had my surgery and my spine has fused successfully! Dr. Kropf and his amazing staff treated me like a human being instead of just a patient! The support and encouragement they gave me throughout the few years I have been going is incomparable! Thank you to all those who helped me during my recovery, especially Sakura, and Trisha! You are all Angels on Earth! God Bless you!"

-Stefifi A

"Dr. Kropf is literally a miracle worker. I have suffered with horrible pain for years from herniation at L4/5 & L5/S1. Had a prior micro-surgery from another surgeon which did not work. Dr. Kropf performed a double fusion through the stomach and back. Had my 7 month follow up yesterday and got a clean bill of health. Honestly, after about 5 months I was totally pain free. He completely nailed it!!! I also just referred one of my good friends who also feel in love with Dr.Kropf. I had interviewed 7 surgeons with my wife and we both agreed that there was no one better to do my surgery. This was not a fun thing to go through, but so worth it. Katie, Sakura, and Trisha also were awesome to deal with and super responsive."

-Lee E

“Dr. Kropf is a very knowledgeable and experienced surgeon. He is just as straight forward and honest as I remember him from 19 years ago. He did an amazing job with my back then, that I flew across the country to discuss the second surgery with him!”

"This man gave me my life back! I wouldn't be working today with him as a spine nurse ! I had a cervical fusion & artificial disc replacement for my lower back ! He's caring & compassionate & so is his staff ! He saved my husbands life also by ordering the right tests & got him to another specialist , I feel so blessed to have him! "

-Anastacia H

"I had a Cervical Spine Surgery February 2017 and Lumbar Spine Surgery November 2017. Both Surgeries were a Success. I feel so much better....No More Pain! Thank You, Dr. Kropf... You're the BEST!"

-Martha B