Can Vertebrae Be Replaced?

This surgical procedure replaces a severely diseased or damaged vertebra with a device designed to restore the spine's proper height and alignment. The patient's pain is relieved by eliminating pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots in the thoracic or lumbar spine.

Is it possible to replace vertebrae?

Severe fractures are unstable and often require surgery to remove and replace the damaged vertebra and stabilize the spine. A lumbar vertebral body replacement involves replacing the affected area with a small metal cage filled with bone graft material, which is then screwed into the adjacent healthy vertebrae.

Are there artificial vertebrae?

Lumbar artificial disc replacement is a relatively newer procedure compared to lumbar fusion, but has been available in the U.S. since 2000, when FDA studies began. Three lumbar disc devices have been FDA-approved for use in the US, and two are still available.