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Lumbar Disc Replacement in Long Island A Motion-Saving Alternative to Fusion

At Core Alliance, our goal is to help patients regain movement and quality of life with modern spine solutions. Led by board-certified spine surgeon Dr. Aron Rovner, we offer lumbar disc replacement in Long Island to individuals struggling with disc degeneration and chronic back pain.

This advanced surgical option relieves nerve compression while preserving spinal motion—offering a viable alternative to fusion for the right candidates. If you’ve been living with lower back pain that hasn’t responded to conservative care, schedule a consultation with Core Alliance to see if lumbar disc replacement is right for you.

What Is Lumbar Disc Replacement?

Lumbar disc replacement is a surgical procedure that replaces a damaged spinal disc in the lower back with an artificial one. Unlike spinal fusion, this motion-preserving technique is designed to maintain mobility while relieving pressure on nearby nerves and restoring disc height.

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When Is Lumbar Disc Replacement Necessary?

This procedure is typically recommended when chronic back pain stems from a single degenerated lumbar disc and does not improve with physical therapy, injections, or medications. It’s essential that the patient has minimal spinal instability and no significant spinal deformity or advanced joint disease.

Your provider may suggest lumbar disc replacement in Long Island if imaging confirms that the damaged disc is the primary source of pain and if conservative treatment has not provided relief over several months.

Benefits of Lumbar Disc Replacement

This procedure offers several long-term advantages for eligible patients:

  • Preservation of Motion: The artificial disc allows continued movement, unlike spinal fusion, which eliminates it.
  • Lower Stress on Adjacent Discs: Motion preservation may reduce the risk of future degeneration at nearby levels.
  • Sustained Pain Relief: Removing the problematic disc helps alleviate nerve compression and inflammation.
  • Quicker Recovery: Recovery time is often shorter than fusion procedures, allowing patients to return to daily life sooner.
  • Less Likelihood of Revision Surgery: Maintaining natural biomechanics may reduce the chance of future operations.
  • No Bone Graft Needed: This eliminates donor site pain or complications associated with graft harvesting.
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Who Is a Good Candidate for Lumbar Disc Replacement in Long Island?

Lumbar disc replacement in Long Island is most appropriate for adult patients with localized lower back pain due to a single damaged disc. Candidates should not have significant spinal instability, facet joint arthritis, or scoliosis.

Good spinal alignment and overall health are also important. If your symptoms persist despite months of non-surgical care, and your imaging studies show degeneration confined to a single disc, this may be an excellent option.

Your surgeon will evaluate all aspects of your health and lifestyle to ensure it’s the right fit.

Your Consultation

At your consultation with Core Alliance, Dr. Rovner will conduct a thorough review of your symptoms, medical history, and imaging studies. You’ll receive a detailed explanation of the procedure, benefits, and what to expect during recovery. We are committed to patient-centered care and transparent communication at every step.

“Dr. Rovner truly cares about his patients. He’s attentive, takes the time to listen, and follows through. I really appreciated that he personally called back to answer my questions—something you don’t see often these days. I felt heard and supported every step of the way.”

– Seva Panagio

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What to Expect During Your Lumbar Disc Replacement Procedure

Lumbar disc replacement is performed under general anesthesia through a small incision in the abdomen. A vascular surgeon may assist in accessing the front of the spine safely. The damaged disc is carefully removed, and a custom artificial disc made of metal and medical-grade plastic is implanted in its place. This disc is designed to mimic the function of a healthy one, maintaining the spacing and movement between vertebrae. The procedure generally takes one to two hours, and most patients remain in the hospital for one to two days afterward.

What Is the Recovery Like After Lumbar Disc Replacement?

Recovery is typically faster than with fusion. Patients are encouraged to begin walking soon after surgery and gradually increase activity.

Light activities can usually resume within a few weeks, and full recovery often occurs by three months. A physical therapy program may be introduced to support core strength and proper spinal mechanics.

Our team will guide you through every phase with customized instructions and support to ensure your recovery is smooth and effective.

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What Is the Cost of Lumbar Disc Replacement?

Cost varies depending on your insurance coverage, the surgical facility, and any required ancillary services. We’ll help you understand your benefits and payment options during your consultation.

Alternatives to Lumbar Disc Replacement

While lumbar disc replacement in Long Island is ideal for some patients, others may benefit more from:

  • Spinal Fusion: Especially if there’s instability or multiple levels involved.
  • Conservative Therapy: Physical therapy, injections, or medications may still be effective in the early stages.
  • Minimally Invasive Decompression: This approach relieves nerve pressure without replacing the disc.

Our team will help you explore the best treatment path for your diagnosis and goals.

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Why Choose Core Alliance?

At Core Alliance, Dr. Aron Rovner brings over 20 years of expertise in minimally invasive and motion-preserving spine surgery. We prioritize your comfort, mobility, and long-term outcomes with care that’s built around your goals.

If you're considering lumbar disc replacement in Long Island, schedule your consultation to learn how we can help you move better and live stronger.

Frequently Asked Questions Lumbar Disc Replacement

How long does a lumbar disc replacement last?

Artificial discs are built to last for many years—often over a decade—with proper placement and activity moderation.

Will I have any movement restrictions after disc replacement?

You’ll likely regain near-normal movement, though high-impact activities may be limited based on your recovery progress.

Are there risks associated with lumbar disc replacement?

All surgeries carry some risk, including infection or implant complications. We minimize these risks through meticulous planning and modern techniques.

How does lumbar disc replacement compare to spinal fusion?

Disc replacement preserves motion, which may help reduce stress on nearby discs. Fusion, while effective, eliminates movement at the treated level.

Can lumbar disc replacement be performed at multiple levels?

While typically done at a single level, multi-level disc replacement is possible for select candidates with proper spinal anatomy.

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