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The medical research results do not stongly support the use of disc arthroplasty (replacement) over fusion. This especially holds true for three levels. The best results with disc arthroplasty are in young individuals with one level disc herniations. Serious complications, like implant settling, have been encountered especially in older individuals with weaker bones.   Insurance companies know the medical research and base their decisions on the medical evidence. Ultimately, treatments decisions by doctors and insurance companies need to be evidence-based decisions. Fusion may be your best surgical option, but that needs to be determined by your doctor. Dr. Christina Lasich, MD