Lumbar Disc
Replacement

Both procedures remove the damaged disc and decompress any compressed nerves. The difference is what happens next. Fusion fills the disc space with a bone spacer and plate, permanently locking the vertebrae together — eliminating motion at that segment forever. Lumbar disc replacement (with ProDisc-L) implants a precision artificial disc that replicates the natural disc’s ability to flex, extend, and rotate. Motion is preserved. Adjacent discs are protected. The recovery is faster and the long-term outcomes in appropriately selected patients are superior.

Yes — Tiger Woods underwent lumbar disc replacement surgery as part of his spinal care. His choice of a motion-preserving approach over fusion reflects the same philosophy Dr. Katsevman brings to every patient: when the anatomy and diagnosis allow it, preserving motion protects the spine long-term and enables a higher level of function and activity. If one of the most demanding professional athletes in the world chose disc replacement over fusion, it speaks volumes about the procedure’s performance credentials.

ProDisc-L is FDA-approved for patients with symptomatic degenerative disc disease at one or two levels from L3 to S1, who have failed at least 6 months of conservative treatment. Key eligibility factors include: absence of significant facet joint arthritis, no significant spondylolisthesis, adequate bone quality, and no prior lumbar instrumentation at the index level. Dr. Katsevman will review your MRI, X-rays, and CT to assess your specific anatomy and determine candidacy. A consultation is the fastest way to get a clear answer.

Yes — ProDisc-L is the only lumbar total disc replacement in the world with FDA approval for use at two levels. The two-level FDA approval was validated through a rigorous investigational device exemption (IDE) study, with durable clinical improvements confirmed at a minimum of 9 years of follow-up. This is a significant distinction: most lumbar disc replacement devices are only approved for single-level use. For patients with two-level degenerative disc disease, ProDisc-L offers a validated, FDA-approved two-level motion-preserving option.

Most patients go home the same day or the following morning. Because the approach is anterior (from the front) and does not disrupt the posterior back muscles, post-operative pain is often less than after posterior fusion surgery. Return to walking and light activity begins immediately. Return to desk work is typically 2–4 weeks. Because there is no bone fusion waiting to consolidate, return to sports and demanding physical activity is significantly faster than after fusion — military studies show over 30% faster return to full duty. Dr. Katsevman will provide a personalized recovery plan at your consultation.

Lumbar disc replacement is covered by most major insurance plans when medically indicated, though coverage criteria vary by insurer. Dr. Katsevman’s team will verify your specific benefits, navigate prior authorization, and explore out-of-network options or GAP exceptions where applicable. We work with all insurance plans and are transparent about costs before any decisions are made.

Absolutely. Many patients who are told they need lumbar fusion are actually candidates for disc replacement — but not all surgeons offer or are trained in lumbar TDR. Dr. Katsevman performs both procedures and can evaluate whether disc replacement is appropriate for your specific anatomy. He offers in-person and telemedicine second-opinion consultations for patients across Florida and nationally. Bring your MRI images and prior surgical recommendations — a second look often changes the picture significantly.