Total disc replacement versus lumbar interbody fusion for degenerative disc disease: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Neurosurgical focus·July 1, 2026·PMID 42385251

Why it matters

For spine surgeons and pain specialists managing surgical candidates with DDD, this analysis clarifies that TDR’s main advantage is mechanical durability—fewer reoperations and adjacent segment problems—rather than long-term functional superiority. It informs patient selection and counseling about trade-offs between motion preservation and fusion.