Lumbar Disc Replacement (LDR)
A motion-preserving alternative to lumbar fusion for degenerative disc disease and chronic low back pain. Dr. Basques offers LDR in Rhode Island, serving patients from across New England.
Overview
Lumbar disc replacement — or lumbar arthroplasty — removes a degenerated lumbar disc and replaces it with an artificial disc designed to mimic the natural motion of a healthy spine. Unlike fusion, which eliminates motion at the treated level, LDR preserves the ability to bend, twist, and flex. This procedure is designed for patients with discogenic low back pain from degenerative disc disease who have failed exhaustive non-surgical treatment and do not have significant facet arthritis or instability. Dr. Basques is one of the few surgeons in New England offering lumbar disc replacement.
How It Works
Through an incision in the lower abdomen (anterior approach), Dr. Basques works with a vascular surgeon to safely move aside the major blood vessels and access the front of the lumbar spine. The damaged disc is completely removed, and the artificial disc — consisting of metal endplates and a mobile core — is precisely positioned and secured. The procedure takes approximately 90–120 minutes under general anesthesia. Patients are typically in the hospital for 1–2 days.
Benefits
Who Is a Candidate?
Ideal candidates have single-level degenerative disc disease at L4-L5 or L5-S1 causing chronic, debilitating low back pain that has not responded to at least 6 months of non-surgical treatment (physical therapy, medications, injections). Patients should have preserved disc height, no significant facet arthritis, and no instability or deformity. Good bone quality is required. Not all patients are candidates — Dr. Basques performs a comprehensive evaluation to determine if LDR is the right choice.
Recovery & Aftercare
Hospital stay is typically 1–2 days. Patients begin walking the day after surgery. Light activities resume within 2–3 weeks. Return to desk work is typically within 3–4 weeks. No heavy lifting or bending for the first 6 weeks. Most patients return to full activities within 3 months. Physical therapy begins after the initial healing phase. Dr. Basques provides detailed activity guidelines.
Related Procedures
Ready to Discuss Your Options?
Dr. Basques will explain your procedure options and develop a personalized surgical plan. Serving Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and all of New England.
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