A new option for an old problem
As part of the natural aging process, the space in your lower spinal canal can begin to narrow from a condition called lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). In the past, your options were limited to conservative treatments or invasive spinal surgery. Today, there’s exciting new technology that offers patients a third option: the Superion implant for LSS. In today’s post, we’ll explore how this minimally invasive procedure can effectively treat back pain caused by lumbar spinal stenosis.
What causes lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS)?
Lumbar spinal stenosis occurs when the shape and size of the spinal canal changes, causing the inflammation of the spinal nerves. The most common causes of lumbar spinal stenosis are degenerative arthritis and degenerative disc disease. Degenerative conditions which cause the deterioration of the spinal discs can lead to the thickening of ligaments and the development of bone spurs in the spine. Both of these processes reduce the space around the nerves in the spinal canal. The result is painful, direct pressure on nerve tissues.
Symptoms of LSS:
The symptoms of LSS typically affect people over the age of 50. Signs may include weakness, tingling, or numbness in the lower back, buttocks, and legs. In fact, you may have a narrowing of the spinal canal and not even know it. Evidence of lumbar spinal stenosis may present on an MRI or CT scan without the associated pain. Eventually, however, symptoms do occur and may include the following:
Lumbar spinal stenosis can sometimes cause a stooped posture because it’s less painful to walk when leaning forward slightly, such as with a walker or shopping cart.
What does the procedure entail?
In the Superion implant for lumbar stenosis procedure, you’ll receive local anesthesia. A tiny incision, typically ½ inch, will be made. A small tube is put in place. With the assistance of fluoroscopy (a real-time x-ray), the doctor will position the implant through the tube. The implant will hold the vertebrae open and decompress the nerves. After the implant is secured in place, the incision is closed with a few stitches and covered with a bandaid. This procedure involves minimal tissue damage and blood loss, ensuring a quick and comfortable recovery.
How does the Vertiflex Superion implant work?
The Vertiflex Superion implant is an indirect compression device which acts as a spacer to relieve pressure on the nerves.
Dr. Segura says, "unlike a fusion procedure, the Superion implant for lumbar stenosis gives you time and preserves the option for a future surgical procedure, should you need it."
This FDA approved spinal implant system has shown excellent outcomes for patients suffering from lower back pain caused by LSS.
"Unlike a fusion procedure, the Superion implant for lumbar stenosis gives you time and preserves the option for a future surgical procedure, should you need it."Ronald C. Segura, MD
How effective is the implant?
The Vertiflex Superion Implant has fewer side effects and better outcomes than traditional back surgery. In a three year study of patients who had the procedure, 76.8% of them said they had less back pain and 84% said they had less leg pain. In addition, these patients reported improved physical function and reduced severity of all symptoms.
One of the benefits of the Superion implant for lumbar stenosis is that it’s an outpatient, minimally invasive procedure. So there’s no need for general anesthesia, an extended hospital stay, or a lengthy, painful recovery. There is also minimal blood loss, reduced risk of infection, and less need for pain medication. In fact, patients who have received implants experience an 85% reduction in the use opioids after 5 years.
“Patients who have received implants experience an 85% reduction in the use opioids after 5 years.”
Is the Vertiflex Superion Implant right for you?
If conservative approaches like epidural steroid injections or physical therapy didn’t help relieve you of pain, and surgery seems too aggressive, the Superion implant for lumbar spinal stenosis may be ideal for you.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Segura or Dr. Robertson. They can identify the root cause of your lower back pain, review your history and treatments, and tell you if you’re a good candidate for the Superion implant.
This website is not intended to provide specific medical advice, medical diagnosis, opinion, treatment or services to you or to any other individual. Through this website and links to other websites, Segura Neuroscience & Pain Center provides general information for educational purposes only. The information provided in this site is not a substitute for medical or professional care. You should not use this information in place of the advice of your physician or other healthcare provider. Segura Neuroscience & Pain Center is not liable or responsible for any advice, course of treatment, diagnosis or any other information, services or product you obtain through this website.
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