By: Express News ServicePune | December 15, 2025 09:30 PM IST 3 min readSpecialists emphasise that lumbar disc replacement is not meant for all back pain patients, and increasing public awareness is crucial. (File Photo)Chronic lower back pain caused by disc degeneration is increasingly affecting young and middle-aged Indians, particularly those with demanding professional and active lifestyles. For years, spine fusion surgery was considered the standard surgical solution for advanced disc disease. However, a specialised motion-preserving alternative —lumbar disc replacement surgery — is creating awareness among carefully selected patients.Lumbar Disc Replacement is a specialised spine surgery in which a damaged disc is replaced with an artificial disc to preserve motion and relieve pain, offering an alternative to spine fusion in selected patients. Dr. Mayur P. Kardile, Director of Pune Spine Institute and Consultant Spine Surgeon at Jehangir Hospital, Pune, is among the few spine surgeons in India to perform lumbar disc replacement surgery. “Lumbar disc replacement is a highly specialised surgery and is not routinely performed,” Dr.Kardile said. “It requires specific training, experience, and strict patient selection. When done for the right indication, it allows pain relief while preserving natural spinal movement,” he said.Modern lumbar disc replacement surgery is performed using a minimally invasive anterior approach, through a small incision on the abdomen. This technique allows access to the spine without cutting the back muscles, resulting in reduced surgical trauma. “The minimally invasive approach helps patients recover faster,” Dr. Kardile explained. “Most patients are able to walk within 24 hours, return to desk-based work in a few weeks, and gradually resume full physical activity under supervision.”Unlike spine fusion, which permanently restricts movement at the operated level, disc replacement aims to maintain flexibility and reduce stress on adjacent spinal segments, making it particularly suitable for younger and active individuals. Specialists emphasise that lumbar disc replacement is not meant for all back pain patients, and increasing public awareness is crucial. “Back pain should always be evaluated thoroughly. Surgery is advised only after conservative treatments fail,” Dr. Kardile noted. “However, patients should know that motion-preserving options exist and that early expert consultation can prevent long-term disability.”Free scoliosis and kyphosis correction campAs part of the Standing Straight Initiative, Pune Spine institute will conduct a free of cost scoliosis and kyphosis correction camp till December 31. This correction camp is for children who are suffering from spinal deformities but cannot afford treatment. “The initiative aims to support families with financial difficulties and ensure that their child gets the care they deserve,” Dr Kardile said.Click here to join Express Pune WhatsApp channel and get a curated list of our stories© The Indian Express Pvt LtdTags:spine surgery