Arthroplasty, or surgical replacement of a damaged joint, is commonly used to treat degenerative knee and hip conditions. Now, with the Charité artificial disc, a forerunner in spinal disc arthroplasty, patients with Lumbar degenerative disc disease (DDD) have a viable and effective alternative to a spinal fusion. The Charité replaces discs that have lost moisture, height and integrity of tissues. It is designed to align the spine and preserve its natural ability to move. Extensive tests have shown that it allows patients a full return to flexibility and range of motion. Charité is the first artificial disc approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat patients with single-level DDD at levels L4 to S1. The UCLA Comprehensive Spine Center is one of only 50 training centers in the U.S. that teaches surgeons the proper use and implantation of the disc.