Total Disc Replacement • Oklahoma City, OK

Total Disc Replacement (Artificial Disc) in Oklahoma City

Total disc replacement is a motion-preserving surgery that replaces a damaged spinal disc with an artificial disc instead of fusing the bones together. In carefully selected patients, this can relieve pain while helping maintain more natural movement in the neck or lower back. Dr. Jeffrey A. Moore evaluates whether disc replacement is a safe, appropriate option based on your specific condition.

  • Disc replacement evaluation
  • Cervical (neck) disc replacement
  • Motion-preserving surgery
  • Alternative to fusion in select cases
Call (405) 645-5475 to Ask About Disc Replacement Or request an appointment using the form on this site

Not everyone is a candidate for disc replacement. Dr. Moore’s role is to help you understand whether this procedure — or another option — makes the most sense for your spine.

What Is Total Disc Replacement?

Between each vertebra in your spine is a disc that acts like a cushion and allows for motion. Over time, discs can wear out or become damaged, leading to pain, stiffness, and sometimes nerve irritation. In total disc replacement, the painful disc is removed and replaced with an artificial disc designed to:

  • Maintain some motion at that spinal level.
  • Support the normal height of the disc space.
  • Take pressure off nearby nerves.

Disc replacement is most commonly performed in the cervical spine (neck). In select situations, disc replacement may also be considered in the lumbar spine (lower back).

Who May Be a Candidate for Disc Replacement?

Disc replacement is not a universal solution for all neck or back pain. It is typically considered for patients with:

  • Pain that is primarily due to one or two diseased discs.
  • Disc degeneration or herniation without major instability or deformity.
  • Good bone quality and generally healthy surrounding joints.
  • Symptoms that haven’t improved with non-surgical care.

Certain conditions — such as severe arthritis affecting many levels, marked instability, deformity, or osteoporosis — may make fusion or other procedures more appropriate.

Total disc replacement consultation in Oklahoma City

Relieving Pain While Preserving Motion

For the right patient, disc replacement offers a way to address a painful disc and keep more natural movement in the spine than a fusion might.

Potential Benefits and Limitations

Disc replacement is one of several tools Dr. Moore can consider. When appropriate, possible benefits may include:

  • Relief of neck or back pain related to a damaged disc.
  • Preservation of controlled motion at the operated level.
  • Less stress on nearby levels compared to some fusion procedures.
  • Similar or shorter hospital stays compared with many fusion surgeries.

However, disc replacement is not ideal for everyone. Limitations can include:

  • Not suitable for severe arthritis, deformity, or multi-level disease.
  • Implants can wear or loosen over time, as with any mechanical device.
  • Future surgery may still be needed if new problems develop.

How Total Disc Replacement Is Performed

The details vary based on whether the surgery is in the neck or lower back, but in general:

  • A carefully planned incision is made to reach the damaged disc.
  • The diseased disc is removed along with any bone spurs compressing nerves.
  • The disc space is prepared to accept the artificial disc.
  • The artificial disc is placed and positioned under imaging guidance.

After surgery, patients participate in a guided recovery plan that may include activity restrictions, physical therapy, and follow-up imaging as needed.

How Dr. Moore Helps You Decide

Choosing between disc replacement, fusion, or continued non-surgical care is a big decision. During your visit, Dr. Moore will:

  • Review your MRI, X-rays, and other relevant imaging.
  • Listen to your symptoms, goals, and concerns.
  • Explain whether disc replacement is reasonable in your case — and why.
  • Compare disc replacement with other options, including fusion and non-surgical treatments.

The goal is to match you with the option that best fits your anatomy, lifestyle, and long-term spine health.

Wondering If Disc Replacement Is Right for You?

If you’ve been told you have a worn-out or herniated disc and you’re trying to understand all your options, a consultation with Dr. Moore can help you get clear answers.

  • Review of your imaging and prior treatments.
  • Discussion of disc replacement, fusion, and non-surgical care.
  • A personalized plan focused on your goals and long-term function.
Call (405) 645-5475 to Request a Total Disc Replacement Evaluation You can also contact the office through the form on this website and a team member will follow up with available appointment times.