What is Disc replacement surgery?
Between the individual bones of the spine called ‘vertebrae’ are cartilage-like disc which prevents friction between the bones and provides cushioning to the vertebrae for easy movement and flexibility.
Sometimes, one or more of these discs might get damaged due to various reasons. One could be normal wearing of the disc or herniating of the disc in which the nucleus escapes the annulus and causes strain on the spinal nerve thus causing pain and numbness in the legs.
In such cases, it is
very important to remove the stress of the spinal nerve by removing the disc
and replacing it with an artificial disc. This process is known as disc
replacement surgery or artificial disc replacement. The artificial disc used as
a replacement is made up of metal or an amalgam of plastic and metal.
What is the process of disc replacement?
Being a surgical process, it involves an incision around the affected area of the spine post which the replacement process takes place.
Depending on the affected region of the spine, an incision is made in the frontal neck region for cervical vertebrae, in the transthoracic region for thoracic vertebrae, and in the abdomen for lumbar vertebrae. Once the incision is made, the surgeon ensures clear visibility of the spine by retracting the organs as required.
Considering the sensitivity of the surgery, good vision is extremely important. Once retracted, the surgeon will focus on the damaged disc and remove it using micro tools. The same is replaced with an artificial disc. Once correctly placed, a sealant-like fluid is used to ensure proper movement by placing it between frictional surfaces of the affected region.
Soon after
replacement, the incision is closed using sutures. During the entire process,
the patient is administered general anesthesia and is kept unconscious.
Why Singapore the perfect destination for disc replacement?
An orthopedic surgical procedure, disc replacement requires experienced medical professionals, trained surgeons, and a technically equipped facility. Singapore is one of the most advanced medical destinations that have all these to offer and that is the reason why disc replacement in Singapore is a well-served procedure.
Artificial disc replacement in Singapore is also preferred by a large number of people because of the cost-effectiveness when compared to countries like the USA and the UK where the average cost goes up to USD 58000 whereas, in Singapore, the average cost of the surgery is USD 29600.
The cost of treatment in the country varies based on several factors such as the location of the hospital, the experience of the professionals involved, time of stay post-surgery, and any other complications that might occur during the surgery.
The country features some of the best surgeons and hospitals. Some renowned hospitals in Singapore that offer disc replacement include Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, Gleneagles Hospital, Parkway East Hospital, and Farrer Park Hospital.
With our globally accessible platform, Medigence is making quality healthcare a convenient reality for patients in every corner of the globe. We make it possible for patients from one corner of the world to connect with specialist doctors from another corner of the world through the modern blessing of video conferencing.
