Surgical Options For Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) can profoundly affect quality of life, turning routine movements into constant sources of discomfort. Dr. Matthias Wiederholz, MD, a board-certified pain management specialist at Performance Pain and Sports Medicine, has dedicated his career to helping patients navigate the complexities of this condition.  

In this article, Dr. Wiederholz will explore the spectrum of surgical options available for DDD, from traditional spinal fusion to the latest advancements in minimally invasive techniques. Although Performance Pain and Sports Medicine focuses on non-surgical options, understanding the full range of treatments, including surgical approaches, can help you make a well-informed decision for your back pain. Drawing from his extensive clinical experience and the latest research, he will provide insights into how these procedures can potentially alleviate pain and restore function for those suffering from this debilitating condition. 

Whether you're considering surgery or simply seeking to understand your options, this guide aims to equip you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about your spinal health. Dr. Wiederholz and the team at Performance Pain and Sports Medicine are committed to partnering with you on your journey towards improved well-being and a life less burdened by chronic pain. 

Overview of Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) 

What is Degenerative Disc Disease? 

Degenerative disc disease is a condition that affects the spine's intervertebral discs. These crucial components act as shock absorbers between the vertebrae, allowing for flexibility and movement. As we age, these discs naturally undergo wear and tear, but for some individuals, this process accelerates, leading to chronic pain and reduced mobility. 

Key Symptoms and Diagnosis 

Recognizing the symptoms of DDD is crucial for early intervention. Common signs include: 

• Chronic low back pain or neck pain 

• Pain that worsens with sitting, bending, or lifting 

• Numbness or tingling in the extremities 

• Muscle weakness 

Progression and Impact on Quality of Life 

As DDD progresses, it can significantly impact your quality of life. Simple tasks become challenging, and the constant pain can lead to fatigue, mood changes, and decreased overall well-being. Understanding this progression is vital in determining when surgical intervention might be necessary. 

Surgical Treatments for Degenerative Disc Disease 

When conservative treatments fail to provide adequate relief, degenerative disc disease spinal surgery may be recommended. Let's explore the various surgical options available. 

Traditional Surgical Options (Posterior and Anterior Approaches) Spinal Fusion

Spinal fusion for degenerative disc disease is a common procedure that aims to stabilize the spine by joining two or more vertebrae. This can be performed through either a posterior (back) or anterior (front) approach. 

1. Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF): This technique involves accessing the spine from the back, removing the damaged disc, and inserting a bone graft to promote fusion between the vertebrae. 

1. Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF): In this approach, the surgeon accesses the spine through the abdomen, which allows for a more extensive disc removal and potentially faster recovery. 

Both methods have their advantages, and the choice often depends on the specific condition of the patient and the surgeon's expertise. 

While these surgical treatments can be effective, they are not the only path to relief. At Performance Pain and Sports Medicine, Dr. Wiederholz offers advanced non-surgical options, such as the Discseel® procedure, which addresses disc degeneration in a minimally invasive way, helping patients avoid surgery and lengthy recovery periods 

Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques 

Advancements in medical technology have revolutionized the approach to degenerative disc disease spinal surgery, offering patients a range of minimally invasive options. These procedures typically involve smaller incisions, less muscle damage, and potentially faster recovery times compared to traditional open surgeries. 

1. Microdiscectomy: This precise procedure involves removing a small portion of the damaged disc to alleviate pressure on the nerves, often providing significant relief from pain and other symptoms associated with disc herniation. 

1. Endoscopic Discectomy: Utilizing advanced imaging technology, surgeons can remove disc material through a tiny incision using a small camera and specialized instruments. This technique minimizes tissue damage and often results in quicker recovery times. 

1. Artificial Disc Replacement: Instead of fusing vertebrae, an artificial disc is inserted to maintain spinal mobility. This procedure aims to preserve range of motion while addressing the underlying disc degeneration. 

1. The Discseel® Procedure: The Discseel® procedure, offered by Dr. Wiederholz at Performance Pain and Sports Medicine, is a non-surgical treatment that presents an innovative alternative to traditional spinal surgery. Developed by Dr. Kevin Pauza, this procedure focuses on restoring disc health and function without the need for incisions or recovery time associated with surgery. Instead, the Discseel® procedure works to restore the natural function of the intervertebral discs, helping patients avoid invasive surgery and lengthy recovery periods. At the heart of the Discseel® procedure is the application of a biologic fibrin sealant. This material is injected into damaged discs to promote natural healing and repair. Unlike surgical methods that require removing or fusing parts of the spine, the Discseel® procedure seeks to rejuvenate and heal the disc tissue itself. Here’s a breakdown of the process: 

• Diagnosis and Imaging: Before performing the procedure, advanced imaging (typically fluoroscopy or MRI) is used to precisely identify the damaged disc(s) and determine the degree of degeneration or bulging. 

• Fibrin Sealant Injection: The core of the Discseel® procedure involves the injection of a biologic fibrin sealant into the affected discs. The sealant works to repair cracks or tears in the outer layer (annulus) of the disc, helping to stop the leakage of nucleus pulposus (the inner disc material) that can cause inflammation and nerve compression. The fibrin stimulates the body’s natural healing process, promoting tissue regeneration and disc stabilization. 

• Non-Invasive Nature: As a completely non-surgical technique, the Discseel® procedure is performed using tiny needles, without the need for large incisions or removing parts of the spine. Patients typically undergo the procedure on an outpatient basis, with minimal recovery time needed compared to traditional spine surgeries. 

Patients who undergo the Discseel® procedure at Performance Pain and Sports Medicine often report substantial improvements in their symptoms, including reduced pain, increased mobility, and enhanced overall well-being. Dr. Wiederholz carefully evaluates each patient to determine if the Discseel® procedure is the best option for their specific condition, ensuring a personalized and effective treatment plan. 

1. Epidural Steroid Injections: These injections can provide targeted relief for patients suffering from inflammation-related pain due to degenerative disc disease. 

1. Intrathecal Pain Pump: For patients with severe, chronic pain, this device delivers pain medication directly to the spinal cord, offering precise pain management with lower doses of medication. 

These minimally invasive techniques represent the forefront of spinal treatments, often allowing patients to avoid more extensive surgeries for degenerative disc disease. Dr. Wiederholz carefully evaluate each patient's condition to determine the most appropriate treatment plan, which may include one or more of these advanced procedures. 

Latest Advancements in Spinal Surgery for DDD 

The field of spinal surgery is continually evolving, with new techniques emerging to improve outcomes and reduce recovery times. Some of the latest advancements include: 

• Robot-assisted surgery: Enhancing precision and reducing the risk of complications. 

• 3D-printed implants: Customized to fit each patient's unique spinal anatomy. 

• Stem cell therapies: Experimental treatments currently being studied for their potential to regenerate disc tissue. Although not yet mainstream, these therapies highlight the ongoing advancements in non-surgical options for spine health. 

Understanding Minimally Invasive Techniques 

For many patients with degenerative disc disease, minimally invasive techniques can offer significant relief without the need for traditional, more invasive surgery. Dr. Wiederholz and the team at Performance Pain and Sports Medicine are committed to exploring non-surgical, minimally invasive options whenever possible, helping patients find effective treatments with faster recovery times and less disruption to daily life.  

These innovative approaches offer numerous benefits, including: 

• Smaller incisions, resulting in less scarring 

• Reduced muscle and tissue damage 

• Shorter hospital stays 

• Faster recovery times 

• Lower risk of complications 

Anterolateral (Side) Approach – Benefits and Risks 

The anterolateral approach allows surgeons to access the spine from the side, minimizing disruption to the back muscles. Benefits include: 

• Reduced muscle damage 

• Potentially faster recovery 

• Less postoperative pain 

However, it's important to note that this approach may carry a slightly higher risk of vascular injury due to the proximity of major blood vessels. 

Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion (LLIF) Explained 

LLIF is a minimally invasive procedure that accesses the spine from the side. Key points include: 

• Smaller incisions compared to traditional fusion 

• Reduced blood loss and muscle damage 

• Faster return to daily activities for many patients 

This technique is particularly useful for treating conditions in the lower back (lumbar spine) and can be an excellent option for suitable candidates. 

Ideal Candidates for Minimally Invasive Surgery 

While minimally invasive techniques offer numerous benefits, they're not suitable for everyone. Ideal candidates typically: 

• Have specific types of disc degeneration 

• Are in generally good health 

• Have not found relief from conservative treatments 

Experienced surgeons for spinal disc disorders carefully evaluate each patient to determine the most appropriate surgical approach. 

Recovery and Rehabilitation Post-Surgery 

For those who decide that surgery is the best option, understanding what recovery entails can help prepare for a smoother healing process. However, many patients can avoid surgery altogether by exploring minimally invasive treatments like the Discseel® procedure offered by Dr. Wiederholz. 

Proper recovery and rehabilitation are crucial for the success of any degenerative disc disease spinal surgery. Understanding what to expect can help patients prepare mentally and physically for the journey ahead. 

What to Expect in Immediate Post-Operative Care 

Immediately after surgery, patients can expect: 

• Close monitoring in a recovery area 

• Pain management through medication 

• Gradual increase in activity levels under supervision 

Most patients stay in the hospital for 1-3 days, depending on the procedure and individual recovery progress. 

Physical Therapy and Long-Term Mobility 

Physical therapy plays a vital role in recovery and long-term success after surgery for degenerative disc disease. A tailored rehabilitation program typically includes: 

• Gentle exercises to improve flexibility and strength 

• Techniques for proper body mechanics 

• Gradual increase in activity levels 

Patients are often surprised by how quickly they can return to many daily activities with proper guidance and commitment to their rehabilitation program. 

Common Complications and Managing Them 

While complications are rare, it's important to be aware of potential issues: 

• Infection 

• Nerve damage 

• Failed fusion (in case of spinal fusion procedures) 

Conclusion 

For those grappling with the challenges of DDD, hope and help are within reach. Dr. Wiederholz is available for consultations at both the Houston and New Jersey locations of Performance Pain and Sports Medicine. These face-to-face meetings provide an opportunity to discuss your specific case, explore all available options, and chart a course towards improved spinal health and enhanced quality of life. 

Don't let chronic back pain dictate the terms of your life any longer. Take the first step towards reclaiming your mobility and well-being by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Wiederholz. Whether you’re considering spinal fusion, exploring minimally invasive techniques, or interested in non-surgical options like the Discseel® procedure, the team at Performance Pain and Sports Medicine is ready to guide you every step of the way. Dr. Wiederholz’s expertise in advanced, non-surgical pain management provides patients with innovative alternatives to surgery, offering effective and lasting relief from degenerative disc disease. 

Contact Performance Pain and Sports Medicine today to book your appointment with Dr. Wiederholz in either Houston or New Jersey. Your path to a life with less pain and greater mobility begins with a single step – and Dr. Wiederholz is here to walk that path with you, offering his expertise, compassion, and commitment to your well-being every step of the way. 

Author

Dr. Matthias Wiederholz Dr. Wiederholz is a leading expert in the field of minimally invasive spine treatments in Houston. Trained directly under Dr. Kevin Pauza, the inventor of the Discseel® Procedure, Dr. Wiederholz has been performing this innovative treatment since 2020, making him the first physician in Houston to do so. His direct training under Dr. Pauza has provided him with a deep understanding and mastery of the Discseel® Procedure, allowing him to offer his patients a safe and effective alternative to surgery for chronic back and neck pain. As a trailblazer in his field, Dr. Wiederholz is dedicated to providing his patients with the highest standard of care. His expertise and commitment to patient wellbeing have established him as the trusted choice for those seeking to avoid surgery and improve their quality of life. Choose Dr. Wiederholz, the Houston Discseel® Expert, for a successful return to a pain-free life.