I found a link to another disc which also provides 6 degrees of motion similar to the M6. It seems to operate in a similar manner to the M6 with a compressible core that provides graded resistance, but it has spikes instead of keels to keep the disc in place, and contains a core of silicone surrounding compressible beads with a polycarbonate urethane ring around that. Couldn't find a lot more info on it other than I think Dr. Bertagnoli in Germany uses these along with the M6 and ProDisc.
It will be interesting to see which of these discs proves most successful over time.
Lp-ESP disc:
http://www.supramedical.co.uk/Lumbar-Artificial-Disc/
Yeah, the LP ESP looks great, but I couldn't find many surgeons using it. :(
ReplyDeleteRecognize the surgeon in the photo on your link?!
Ha, didn't notice until you mentioned it. That's funny.
ReplyDeleteI am 34 years old and severely ruptured my L5/S1 disc about 18 months ago, had emergency discectomy/laminectomy just over a year ago due to Cauda Equina Syndrome. While that has gratefully resolved the vertabral space has been decreasing at an alarming rate - to the point that I'm in almost constant pain. I was very active before this occured and am now quite limited in what I can do. I should say that is relative and my pain tolerance is pretty high. I've been told by 2 surgeons in the U.S. that lumbar disc replacement does not generally produce good results and they would not reccomend it. Trying more physical therapy etc but realistically they're thinking fusion in the next year. I would love to hear anything you would be open to sharing about your experience.
ReplyDeletethank you,
Erin