Lumbar disc replacement is a surgical procedure performed to alleviate lower back pain caused by disc degeneration. The goal of the procedure is to restore the natural alignment and function of the spine by replacing the damaged disc with an artificial one. Thailand, a renowned destination for medical tourism, offers superior healthcare services, advanced medical technology, and highly experienced surgeons. Therefore, considering a lumbar disc replacement in Thailand can be a wise decision for international patients seeking high-quality and cost-effective healthcare solutions.
Please note that the prices provided are estimations and may vary based on various factors. Additionally, these prices do not include flights or accommodation.
All prices are in USD.
Lumbar disc replacement involves removing a damaged or degenerated disc in the lower part of the spine (lumbar region) and replacing it with an artificial disc. This procedure is typically recommended for individuals experiencing chronic lower back pain due to disc degeneration who have not responded to conservative treatments. It's vital for patients to understand that although lumbar disc replacement can relieve symptoms, it may not completely eliminate pain, and there are risks involved such as infection, nerve damage, and bleeding.
Preparation for lumbar disc replacement includes comprehensive medical assessments to determine the precise location and extent of disc damage. This can involve MRI scans, CT scans, or other diagnostic tests. Patients are often advised to maintain a healthy lifestyle, cease smoking, and prepare for a period of recovery post-surgery.
A lumbar disc replacement is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon accesses the spine from the front (anterior approach) to remove the degenerated disc and replace it with an artificial one. The procedure typically takes around 2-3 hours.
After a lumbar disc replacement, patients typically stay in the hospital for 2-3 days. Physical therapy is usually part of the recovery plan to help improve strength and flexibility. It's normal to experience some level of discomfort initially after surgery, but this should improve with time. Most patients can return to normal activities within 6 weeks.
The cost of a lumbar disc replacement in Thailand ranges from $15,000 to $20,000, varying according to the specific hospital and complexity of the case. It's important to note that these figures don't include travel and accommodation expenses.
MedPark Hospital is a state-of-the-art healthcare facility that opened in 2020. With a spacious 90,000 square meter building and over 30 departments, the hospital is equipped to handle a wide range of patient needs. It has 550 beds for inpatients and 300 examination rooms, all outfitted with advanced medical equipment to provide the highest quality of care.
Learn more →Bangkok Hospital was one of Thailand's first private hospitals when it was opened in 1972. It has since grown to one of the most well-known hospital networks in the Asia-Pacific area and is a popular destination for both Thais and foreigners for its medical services. Bangkok Hospital has 53 locations across Thailand of which 14 have JCI accreditation.
Learn more →Bumrungrad was founded in 1980 and is Southeast Asia's largest private hospital. It is one of the world's most popular medical tourism destinations, treating over 1.1 million patients annually of which many are overseas patients. Bumrungrad was the first hospital in Asia to receive JCI accreditation and has since received awards from numerous other agencies for its medical services.
Learn more →The cost of a lumbar disc replacement in Thailand typically ranges from $15,000 to $20,000, depending on the specific hospital and complexity of the case.
Most patients can return to their normal activities within 6 weeks following a lumbar disc replacement. The recovery time can vary based on individual health conditions and the extent of the surgery.
It's usually recommended to wait for at least one week before undertaking long flights. However, patients should always consult with their surgeon for personalized advice based on their specific recovery process.
You should plan to stay for approximately 2 to 3 weeks in Thailand for consultation, surgery, and initial recovery from lumbar disc replacement.