What is Vertiflex?
Vertiflex is a minimally invasive treatment option designed to relieve chronic pain associated with lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). Lumbar spinal stenosis is a condition where the spinal canal narrows, causing pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness in the lower back and legs.
What is Vertiflex?
The Vertiflex Procedure, also known as the Vertiflex Superion Interspinous Spacer, involves the placement of a small implant between the spinous processes (the bony projections on the back of the vertebrae) in the lumbar spine. This device is designed to create space and reduce pressure on the affected nerves.
How Does Vertiflex Help Chronic Pain?
Decompression of Nerves:
The Vertiflex device works by lifting and separating the vertebrae, which helps to widen the spinal canal and reduce the compression of nerves. This decompression alleviates the symptoms of pain, numbness, and tingling associated with LSS.
Minimally Invasive:
The procedure is performed through a small incision, typically requiring only local anesthesia and sedation. This minimally invasive approach reduces the risk of complications and promotes faster recovery compared to traditional open spine surgery.
Stability:
Unlike some other treatments that may involve removing bone or tissue, the Vertiflex device maintains the stability of the spine while providing the necessary space for the nerves.
Preservation of Motion:
The Vertiflex implant preserves the natural movement of the spine, allowing patients to maintain their range of motion and flexibility.
Outpatient Procedure:
The Vertiflex procedure can often be performed on an outpatient basis, meaning patients can go home the same day. This convenience reduces the overall disruption to patients’ lives and allows for a quicker return to normal activities.
Benefits of Vertiflex
Effective Pain Relief: Clinical studies have shown that the Vertiflex Procedure can significantly reduce pain and improve function in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis.
Minimized Risks: Because the procedure is minimally invasive, there is a lower risk of infection, blood loss, and other complications compared to traditional spine surgery.
Quick Recovery: Patients typically experience a shorter recovery time and less postoperative pain, enabling them to resume their daily activities sooner.
Long-Lasting Results: Many patients report sustained pain relief and improved quality of life following the Vertiflex Procedure.
Who is a Candidate for Vertiflex?
The Vertiflex Procedure is generally recommended for patients who:
Have been diagnosed with moderate to severe lumbar spinal stenosis.
Experience significant pain and disability that impacts their daily life.
Have not found adequate relief from conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or epidural injections.
Are not candidates for, or prefer to avoid, traditional open spine surgery.
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