X Stop For Spinal Stenosis
X Stop For Spinal StenosisIn 2005 the Federal Drug Administration gave its approval to market a new treatment for the relief of symptoms due to spinal stenosis. This treatment, known as Interspinous Decompression System, consists of a two-part titanium implant that fits between the spinous processes of the lumbar spine. X Stop for spinal stenosis is a remarkable new treatment. Its primary purpose is to relieve pain or cramping in the legs (also known as neurogenic intermittent claudication) caused directly by spinal stenosis. This is strictly used for the relief of symptoms due to lumbar stenosis, and not at any other level of the spine. When is implantation of the X Stop device indicated? In a patient who has had moderately impaired function, and who has had at least a 6 month course of conservative treatment (physical therapy, etc.); in addition, the patient should be at least 50 years old (generally lumbar spinal stenosis occurs in those aged 50 or older). Lumbar spinal stenosis is characterized by radiculopathy - this is pain, numbness, tingling and weakness in the legs. In layman's terms this is known as a "pinched nerve" in the lower back. How does the X Stop work? It is designed to keep the space between the vertebrae (spinous processes) open so that when the patient stands up, the nerves in the back will not become pinched or cause pain. This procedure can be done under local anesthetic, and has the potential to be done on an outpatient basis - thus cutting the cost to the patient considerably. Will implantation of the X Stop device relieve all symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis? There is no absolute guarantee in any surgical procedure that it will be the 'magic bullet' and cure all ills in our life times, but this device has been proven to demonstrate a significant percentage of improvement in those patients experiencing moderately impaired physical function. Think of it this way; for the last 6-12 months your activity level has been 0-20% of normal. This device may give you back as much as 75% of normal function - isn't that worth taking the chance? Of course, with this procedure, as with any surgery, there are preoperative considerations. Prior to undergoing implantation of the X Stop for spinal stenosis, the patient should notify their surgeon if they are allergic to titanium or titanium alloy, as the device is made of titanium. Other considerations include significant instability of the lumbar spine or diagnosis of severe osteoporosis. As with any surgical procedure, this may not be for everyone - but it will benefit many patients and help them to lead normal lives again. |