Insurance usually doesn't pay for artificial disc replacement.

There are still many unknowns about the ADR. How long they will last, what happens to the body if they rupture.

There are serious difficulties removing the disc if it doesn't work, many times it can be a risk of life to remove them.

Have you tried any conservative measures for you "leaking" disc?

have you done PT,
Have you done injections?

It would be best to seek out several other opinions on the need for a disc replacement.

Has disectomy or microdisectomy been discussed?

I would get another opinion If I where you, actually I would get several other opinions before considering surgery.

Good luck

Fran

I had disc replacement surgery october 2007, with fusion. And I am still in pain and getting worse. I dont know what its like for everyone after the surgery. But I was in alot of pain. And I still have problems with pinched nerves and alot of pain. Walking, sitting and especially bending over. Now I am having a feeling of like warm water running down my leg. Its weird. My disc was completely ruptured and leaked all the fluid out. So if you want to fix your problem by surgery, then maybe call around to doctors or hospitals and tell them your insurnace wont cover it. Theres always someone that will let you pay in payments. With some up front. If you get the surgery i hope yours turns out better then mine. Im 29 male and ill be having another disc replacement soon.