artificial, disc, replacement, lumbar Artificial Disc Replacement Procedure, Anterior View

Description

Anterior lumbar anatomy appears in sequential layers as the approach to L5 to S1 is established, with the L5 vertebral body positioned superior to the sacral promontory of S1 and the prosthetic disc centered in the intervertebral space. The animation tracks the anterior longitudinal ligament being released and the native L5 to S1 disc removed, then shows endplate preparation on the inferior endplate of L5 and superior endplate of S1. Implant trialing precedes insertion, with the artificial disc seated in the midline and aligned in the sagittal and coronal planes. Motion cues emphasize restoration of disc height and segmental lordosis. L5 to S1 arthroplasty is selected for symptomatic degenerative disc disease when facet joints remain functional and instability is limited, so preserving motion becomes the operative goal rather than achieving fusion. Seeing the anterior corridor in motion clarifies why mobilization of the great vessels matters at this level, where the aortic bifurcation and common iliac vessels can overlie the disc space and complicate retractor placement. The stepwise sequence also helps teach how off-center positioning can predispose to subsidence, heterotopic ossification, or persistent radicular symptoms if foraminal height is not restored. Use this animation in spine surgery teaching rounds, device education for orthopedic and neurosurgical trainees, patient-facing consent modules, and publisher graphics that compare total disc replacement with anterior lumbar interbody fusion at L5 to S1. It also supports anatomy and biomechanics coursework by linking endplate preparation and implant position to postoperative range of motion. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.