Studies suggest that while both fusion patients and artificial disc patients improve following surgery, those patients implanted with the CHARITÉ™ Artificial Disc device improve more quickly than traditional spinal fusion patients with superior pain relief and functional results. CHARITÉ™ is the only artificial disc on the market in the United States approved by the FDA. The implant is approved as an alternative to spinal fusion for patients with one symptomatic diseased disc between L4 and L5 or between L5 and S1 vertebrae. More than 7000 patients worldwide have received the new disc, which has been available in more than 30 countries, and has close to 17 years of utilization in Europe. While not all patients are candidates for this type of surgery, the neurosurgeons of Coastal Physicians and Surgeons are specially trained in the selection of patients and performance of the procedure.

The neurologists and neurosurgeons of Coastal Physicians & Surgeons, P.C. are all university trained, board certified, and have extensive experience in treating spinal injuries and disc disorders. Surgery, if necessary, can range from minimally invasive microsurgery to major reconstructive fusion procedures or artificial disc replacement. The decision whether or not to proceed with surgery is based on many factors. These can include the abnormality in the spine felt to be responsible for the symptoms, the findings on examination, and most importantly, the impact of the symptoms on the patients quality of life. Problems in the spine can be now be repaired or reconstructed with a higher degree of success than previously, with potentially less pain and shorter recovery times.

Advanced technologies such as artificial disc replacement, computer-assisted image guided instruments, the operating microscope, and improved exposure systems are available at community hospitals, enabling patients to receive care locally that was previously available only at major medical centers.

Coastal Physicians & Surgeons strives to provide complete care for patients with spinal disorders and injuries. Whether the treatment is non-surgical medical care, minimally invasive microsurgery or complex spinal reconstruction, the neurologists and neurosurgeons at Coastal Physicians & Surgeons utilize the newest technologies to improve the lives of their patients.