Disc Replacement in South Africa

Introduced recently as a modern treatment for severe cervical diseases, the disc replacement surgery has proven a boon to mankind. In this procedure, the diseased or damaged discs are surgically removed and replaced by artificial ones. The procedure henceforth enables the suffering individuals to attain partial or nearly complete mobility in the cervical/lumbar region. On the contrary, the prior treatments included fusing the adjacent cervical vertebrae instead of replacing or inserting any kind of artificial disc. The procedure was recently eliminated as it causes stiffness and immobility in patients post-surgery. However, the disc replacement surgery cost may vary from a minimum of $8000 to approximately $40,000 and higher. 

What is Disc Replacement ( Cervical /Lumbar)?

Cervical or lumbar disc replacement surgery is one of the most recent treatments included among spinal treatments. It is mostly suggested when a pressed nerve root, within a compact spinal canal, experiences enhanced pressure and causes extreme pain and inflammation. This may happen due to rapidly degenerating diseased cervical/lumbar disc which results in narrowing of the space. Hence, replacing the degenerated disc with an artificial disc restores the spinal health, thereby reducing the pain and suffering. 

Ideal Candidate for Disc Replacement ( Cervical /Lumbar)

Before suggesting an operation, the surgeon may evaluate the individual to determine the candidacy for the procedure. Hence, in order for the disc replacement surgery to be performed, the candidate must:

• Experience recurring pain in the medial or vertebral region
• Have degenerated resulting in narrowing of spinal canal
• Be diagnosed with herniated cervical or lumbar disc that cannot be repositioned and needs to be replaced
• Be diagnosed or detected as damaged.

Factors Affecting the cost of Disc Replacement ( Cervical /Lumbar)

Cervical disc replacement cost varies to a great extent as per the country where the procedure is being performed. Where countries like India, and Singapore offer affordable base rates, major countries like UK and USA charge extremes. However, the other key determining factors are:

• Type of condition the candidate has been diagnosed with
• Possibility of complications, of any
• Type of artificial disc suitable
• Extent of procedure required
• Healthcare benefits availed and necessary.