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Disc Replacement Surgery in Minnesota

Motion-Preserving Spine Surgery by the Experts at Midwest Spine & Brain Institute

At Midwest Spine & Brain Institute (MSBI), our board-certified spine surgeons are recognized leaders in treating complex spine conditions and treatments, including cervical and lumbar disc replacement surgery – advanced, motion-preserving procedures that relieve neck and back pain while maintaining natural spinal movement.
Unlike spinal fusion, disc replacement allows patients to preserve flexibility, reduce stress on nearby spinal segments, and return to activity faster.

With over 30 years of surgical excellence and thousands of successful spine procedures, our Minnesota-based specialists use the latest FDA-approved artificial disc technologies to help patients regain motion and quality of life.

 

What Is Disc Replacement Surgery?

Total Disc Replacement (TDR) – also known as Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR) – is a surgical procedure where a damaged spinal disc is removed and replaced with an artificial implant designed to mimic the disc’s natural motion.
This innovative, motion-sparing alternative to spinal fusion helps patients:

  • Maintain normal spinal flexibility and movement
  • Experience faster recovery with less postoperative pain
  • Reduce stress on surrounding discs and joints
  • Return to work, sports, and normal activities sooner

Disc replacement can be performed in two main regions of the spine: cervical (neck) and lumbar (lower back).

Cervical Disc Replacement (Neck)

In a cervical disc replacement, a small incision is made at the front of the neck. Using live fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray), the damaged disc is identified and carefully removed. A cervical artificial disc implant is then placed between the vertebrae to restore height, alignment, and motion.

Common conditions treated include:

Some patients considering disc replacement may have previously undergone discectomy surgery and are now seeking a motion-preserving solution.

Typical surgery time: 1–2 hours
 Recovery: Many patients return to light activities within 2–3 weeks.

Lumbar Disc Replacement (Lower Back)

During lumbar disc replacement, a small incision is made in the lower abdomen using a retroperitoneal approach (accessing the front of the spine).
The diseased disc is removed and replaced with a lumbar artificial disc designed to restore proper spacing, stability, and motion.

Common conditions treated include:

Typical surgery time: 1–3 hours
 Recovery: Return to routine activities within 6–12 weeks, depending on healing and rehabilitation.

Published Research & Clinical Outcomes

Our surgeons are actively involved in national and international research advancing motion-preserving spinal technologies.
 These peer-reviewed studies and clinical trials demonstrate that disc replacement provides excellent long-term motion preservation, reduced reoperation rates, and superior patient satisfaction compared to fusion.

Featured Publications:

Each publication reinforces the safety, durability, and motion-preserving benefits of artificial disc replacement surgery.

Why Patients Choose Midwest Spine & Brain Institute

Patients throughout Minnesota and western Wisconsin trust MSBI because we provide:

  • Board-Certified Neurosurgeons & Orthopedic Spine Surgeons with specialized training in motion-preserving techniques
  • Advanced FDA-Approved Disc Implants for both cervical and lumbar procedures
  • Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques promoting faster recovery and reduced pain
  • Comprehensive Care Continuum – from diagnosis to rehabilitation

13 Convenient Twin Cities Locations, including Edina, Maple Grove, Blaine, St. Paul, and Stillwater

Meet Our Spine Specialists

Our disc replacement procedures are performed by nationally recognized spine surgeons, including Dr. Glenn Buttermann, Dr. Eric S. Nussbaum, Dr. Stefano Sinicropi, Dr. Todd E. Jackman, Dr. Michael A. Finn, and Dr. Meysam Kebriaei, each bringing advanced expertise in motion-preserving spine surgery.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Disc Replacement

What’s the difference between disc replacement and spinal fusion?

Disc replacement uses an artificial implant to maintain movement between vertebrae, while spinal fusion permanently joins them. Disc replacement typically allows faster recovery and more natural mobility.

How long does disc replacement surgery take?

Cervical procedures take about 1–2 hours; lumbar surgeries usually last 2–3 hours, depending on complexity. Patients with complex spinal deformities such as kyphosis and spinal alignment issues may require alternative treatment approaches beyond disc replacement.

 

What’s the recovery time?

Many patients return to light activities within 2–4 weeks and normal routines within 6–12 weeks, depending on individual health and spinal level treated.

Who is a good candidate for disc replacement?

Patients with single-level degenerative disc disease, good bone quality, and no severe arthritis or instability often qualify. A personalized evaluation is essential.

Is disc replacement safe?

Yes. Studies show excellent long-term outcomes, low complication rates, and high satisfaction when performed by experienced spine surgeons.

Does insurance cover disc replacement?

Most Minnesota and Wisconsin insurance providers cover FDA-approved cervical and lumbar disc replacements when medically necessary. Our team can help verify your coverage.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’ve been told you need spinal fusion – or are exploring motion-preserving alternatives – contact Midwest Spine & Brain Institute today.
 Our expert surgeons will help determine whether disc replacement surgery is the best option for your condition.

📍 Find a location near you: Edina | Maple Grove | St. Paul | Stillwater | Blaine

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