Lumbar Disc Replacement in Las Vegas
Artificial disc replacement for degenerative disc disease in the lower back, as an alternative to lumbar fusion.
Lumbar disc replacement removes a painful, degenerated disc in the lower back and replaces it with an artificial disc that preserves motion. In Las Vegas, it's performed by neurosurgeon Dr. Jason E. Garber at the Disc Replacement Center of Las Vegas, for one or two levels between L3 and S1.
Who it helps
- Low back pain lasting six months or more despite therapy and injections
- Pain that worsens with sitting, bending or lifting
- Degenerative disc disease at one or two levels on MRI
- Healthy facet joints and good bone density
Disc replacement vs. fusion in the lower back
The main alternative is lumbar fusion (such as ALIF or TLIF). Fusion stops motion at the painful level. Disc replacement removes the painful disc but keeps the level moving, which can protect the neighboring discs and speed recovery.
Surgery and recovery
The disc is reached through a small incision in the abdomen, usually with an access surgeon. Most patients walk the same day and stay one to two nights. Many return to desk work in two to three weeks and to fuller activity over about three months.
Implants Dr. Garber uses
Where in Las Vegas
Consultations are at our office at 3012 S Durango Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89117. Surgery is performed at Henderson Hospital, Spring Valley Hospital Medical Center, MountainView Hospital, Valley View Surgery Center or Silver State Surgery Center, depending on your plan and insurance. Patients also travel from Boulder City, Mesquite, Pahrump, St. George, UT, Southern California, Arizona.
Common questions
Who is not a candidate for lumbar disc replacement?
People with significant facet arthritis, spinal slippage (spondylolisthesis), osteoporosis, scoliosis or many damaged levels usually do better with another treatment.
Can lumbar disc replacement be done at two levels?
Yes. ProDisc-L is approved in the U.S. for two adjacent levels between L3 and S1.
Why is the surgery done from the front?
The front approach lets the surgeon remove the entire disc and place the implant precisely without disturbing the back muscles and nerves.
Also see cervical disc replacement in Las Vegas.
Find out if disc replacement is right for you
Talk with our team about a consultation or an imaging review with Dr. Garber. Patients are welcome from Las Vegas and anywhere else.