1. Not Everyone With Back Pain Is a Candidate for Them
In general, good candidates for back implants have one or more of the following: some degree of nerve involvement, which may present as radiating pain; spinal deformities, often resulting from degenerative conditions like arthritis; or spinal instability, such as a slipped disc or a trauma. Most physicians will treat back pain conservatively for up to six months before considering implant surgery as an option.
2. There Are Several Types Available
Artificial discs, considered experimental until recently, are designed to replace worn out discs that sit between the vertebrae. Usually, these are in the neck or lower back. Another type of implant is an X STOP, which is a metal bracket that fits between the bony prominences of the vertebrae to keep them separated. An X STOP is used when individuals have calcification in the spinal joints that pinches the nerves, common with spinal stenosis. An interbody cage is a screw-like implant that encourages bone formation between vertebrae in order to fuse the vertebrae in the spine, making it more stable. Pedicle screws, plates and rods are also designed to stabilize the spine, though they generally allow more range of motion between vertebrae. Because of the wide variety of back surgery implants available, your doctor will carefully consider both your condition and your lifestyle in order to choose the one that will work best for you.
3. They Are Lightweight and Non-magnetic
Today's back surgery implants are made of very light, non-magnetic materials. They will not set off airport X-ray machines, and are generally MRI safe. Still, you should always notify MRI technicians of any spinal implants in order to reduce the risk of false readings. Once you have healed from your surgery, you should not be able to feel your implant. If you can, it could be an indication that something is wrong.
4. They Won't Last Forever
With normal wear and tear, the average lifespan of a back surgery implant is approximately 10 years. This is assuming that there is no further degeneration of the spine, or any additional trauma. There is a possibility that some kinds of spinal implants will have to be replaced at some point in the future, which means another surgery may be required. Your doctor will advise you in this regard.
5. Healing From Implant Surgery May Take Several Months
Many of today's back surgery implants allow a greater range of motion between joints, which may be more than you had before surgery. However, during the healing stage the joints may still be unstable, in which case wearing a spinal brace may be necessary. During this recovery period, in order to maintain stability, the doctor may limit your activity level. While this may be frustrating, maintaining the precautions is very important to prevent an implant from being dislodged.
