Preliminary Result of Prosthetic Disc Nucleus Replacement for Lumbar Disc Herniation

Objective To explore the preliminary clinical results of prosthetic disc nucleus(PDN) replacement for lumbar disc herniation. Methods From May 2002 to August 2003, 26 patients underwent artificial nucleus replacement with single PDN. Results All the cases were followed up for 3 to 18 months (mean 10.5 months). The clinical outcomes were excellent in 18 cases, good in 4 cases, fair in 2 cases. One case occurred intervertebral infection and improved after conservative management. Another case received reoperation of replacement because of the replase resulted from the migration of prostheses 2 months after operation.Conclusion The artificial nucleus replacement for lumbar disc herniation can restore the intervertebral height. It is an effective spinal surgical technique with easy operation, little damage, quick recovery and satisfatory short-term clinical result. But its long-term clinical result still await further investigation.