Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery – When Medical Malpractice Causes Catastrophic Results

Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery

Artificial disc replacement surgery is a medical procedure designed to treat chronic back or neck pain caused by degenerative disc disease. During the surgery, a damaged spinal disc is replaced with an artificial disc made of metal, plastic, or a combination of materials. This procedure aims to restore normal motion and alignment of the spine, reducing pain and improving quality of life. Unlike spinal fusion surgery, which limits movement by permanently joining two vertebrae, artificial disc replacement allows for continued mobility in the affected area.

Artificial disc replacement surgery is typically advised for patients who suffer from severe disc degeneration that does not respond to non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, medication, or injections. It is generally recommended when:

• Chronic back or neck pain persists despite conservative treatments.
• Imaging tests confirm significant disc damage or degeneration.
• The patient’s overall health and lifestyle support recovery from major surgery.

While artificial disc replacement surgery has become more common in recent years, it is still less frequently performed than spinal fusion. Candidates for the surgery often include individuals between the ages of 30 and 60 who are in relatively good health. Key statistics and factors include:

• Increasing adoption as a preferred alternative to spinal fusion for suitable candidates.
• Younger, active patients who wish to maintain spine mobility may benefit the most.
• Limited applicability for patients with advanced arthritis or other spinal conditions.

Risks Associated With Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery

Like any major surgery, artificial disc replacement carries certain risks, which can include:

• Infection at the surgical site. This may lead to serious complications such as abscess formation or sepsis, requiring additional medical intervention or hospitalization.
• Implant failure or wear over time. Overuse or material degradation can cause the artificial disc to lose functionality, necessitating revision surgery.
• Nerve damage leading to weakness, numbness, or paralysis. This can occur if nerves are inadvertently compressed, stretched, or severed during the procedure.
• Blood clots or excessive bleeding. Blood clots can lead to life-threatening conditions like pulmonary embolism, while excessive bleeding might require transfusions or emergency measures.
• Persistent pain despite surgery. Pain may persist if the underlying condition was not fully addressed or due to post-surgical complications, reducing the expected benefits of the procedure.

Examples of Medical Malpractice Leading to Serious Injury in Artificial Disc Replacement Cases

Intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM) is a critical tool used during cervical disc surgery to monitor the function of the spinal cord and nerves in real time, helping to prevent neurological injuries. A physician’s failure to use IONM, or to properly interpret and respond to its data, can constitute negligence if it leads to preventable harm. This oversight may result in serious complications such as nerve damage, paralysis, or chronic pain, as IONM provides an essential safeguard to identify and address potential issues during surgery before they cause irreversible injury.

Additional complications, although relatively rare, that may occur during artificial disc replacement surgery may include:

• Improper placement of the artificial disc by the surgeon, resulting in misalignment or restricted movement, or leading to nerve compression and chronic pain.

• Nerve or spinal cord injuries caused by surgical error.
• Failure to recognize and address pre-existing conditions that contraindicate surgery.
• Failure to detect and treat post-operative infections, resulting in sepsis.
• Operating on the wrong spinal level, causing further injury to the patient.
• Leaving surgical instruments or materials inside the patient.

Lawsuit Settlements and Verdicts Involving Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery

Here are several notable examples of lawsuit settlements or verdicts in the U.S. involving artificial disc replacement surgery:

1. California: A patient received a $2.5 million settlement after a surgeon improperly placed an artificial disc, leading to permanent nerve damage. The case highlighted the importance of pre-surgical planning and the consequences of poor surgical precision.
2. Florida: A jury awarded $3.8 million to a patient who developed severe infections due to unsterile surgical practices. This case underscored the need for strict adherence to sterilization protocols to prevent life-threatening infections.
3. Texas: A $1.2 million settlement was reached after a patient experienced paralysis following a misplaced artificial disc. The surgeon’s failure to verify placement using imaging technology was a key factor in this outcome.
4. New York: A $2 million verdict was awarded to a patient who suffered chronic pain due to the surgeon operating at the wrong spinal level. This case demonstrated the devastating impact of surgical errors caused by inadequate identification of the surgical site.
5. Ohio: A case resulted in a $1.7 million settlement after post-surgical complications were mismanaged, leading to long-term disability. The failure to monitor and address complications promptly led to significant harm for the patient.

How Lupetin & Unatin Can Help  

The Pittsburgh medical malpractice lawyers at Lupetin & Unatin have extensive experience representing patients and their families in cases involving catastrophic injuries from surgical errors, including artificial disc replacement surgery. Our firm is dedicated to helping victims of medical negligence seek justice and obtain compensation for their suffering. If you or a loved one has experienced serious harm or death following artificial disc replacement surgery, contact us to schedule a free case evaluation. Let us help you navigate the legal process and pursue the justice you deserve.