Studies show that with every successive fusion, outcomes become less successful, and the likelihood of residual pain increases. Patients who undergo multiple fusions often face a cycle of pain, reduced mobility, and the need for further surgical interventions.
Recently, I had the privilege of working with a long-time patient who exemplifies this cycle. A highly active individual in his mid-60s, he had undergone multiple lumbar fusions extending from L1 to L5. Despite his remarkable fitness and resilience, his lower back pain persisted, and the surgical alterations made non-surgical treatments less effective. When he presented with cervical spine issues and ASD, he was understandably desperate for relief. While I recommended a regenerative approach, he is still considering traditional cervical spine surgery performed by an excellent surgeon, hoping for a quick fix. However, the reality is that this approach may not completely resolve his pain, and with each successive surgery, the likelihood of long-term pain relief generally decreases. While surgery might seem like the most direct solution for severe pain, it reflects a limiting, old-school mindset often shaped by corporate, insurance-driven healthcare systems. This perspective may prevent him from exploring potentially better, less invasive solutions that prioritize his overall well-being.
The Solution: Regenerative Orthobiologics for Cervical Disc Disease
For patients with cervical Degenerative disc disease and in many cases adjacent segment disease (ASD), regenerative treatments like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) offer a less invasive, alternative to surgery. PRP uses the body’s own repairing properties to target inflammation, help repair damaged tissues, and aid in support of weakened connective tissue structures.
For cervical spine conditions, PRP can be used to:
Reduce Inflammation: Targeting facet joints and articular surfaces.
Support Ligaments: Strengthening the interspinous and supraspinous ligaments.
Address Muscle Atrophy: Treating the multifidus and paraspinal muscles.
Calm Nerve Roots: Alleviating irritation and compression around exiting nerves.
Proper imaging, including MRIs and x-rays, ensures that every affected structure is identified and treated. By stabilizing the spine’s natural architecture, PRP can reduce pain, improve function, and potentially delay or even eliminate the need for surgery.
What This Means for Patients
For patients, the promise of regenerative treatments can be life-changing. Surgery, while sometimes necessary, is not always the best solution. Each surgical intervention disrupts the body’s natural anatomy, creating scar tissue, altering biomechanics, and increasing the likelihood of future complications like ASD. Regenerative options like PRP offer a way to address the root causes of pain and dysfunction without the risks and long recovery times associated with surgery.
Patients who pursue orthobiologic treatments often experience reduced pain, improved mobility, and a greater sense of control over their health. Unlike surgery, which permanently changes the spine’s structure, regenerative medicine works with the body to decrease pain and help functionality. Moreover, patients can avoid the diminishing success rates seen with repeated surgeries.
What This Means for Doctors
For physicians, this highlights the importance of considering non-surgical options for cervical DDD and ASD. While surgery can be effective in specific cases, it’s crucial to recognize its limitations and long-term implications. By incorporating orthobiologic treatments into their practice, doctors can offer patients a pathway to healing that prioritizes preservation of the spine’s natural structures.
Adjacent Segment Degeneration (ASD):
Cervical Disc Replacement patients had a 26.2% incidence of ASD.
Fusion patients exhibited a significantly higher ASD incidence at 43.9% (P<0.001).
Explore Your Options at Pain Experts
If you’re struggling with cervical DDD or adjacent segment disease, Pain Experts is here to help. Our comprehensive approach combines advanced imaging, regenerative treatments like PRP, and personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Avoid the risks and uncertainties of additional surgery—schedule a consultation today to discover how we can help you achieve lasting relief and a more active, pain-free life.
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