TREATMENTS & PROCEDURES

VERTIFLEX PROCEDURE

THE VERTIFLEX SUPERION INDIRECT DECOMPRESSION SYSTEM PROCEDURE IS AN INNOVATIVE, EVIDENCE-BASED TREATMENT FOR LUMBAR SPINAL STENOSIS.

Our lumbar spinal stenosis specialists provide an alternative minimally invasive treatment known as Vertiflex which is currently the only FDA-approved interspinous spacer on the market and one of the most advanced evidence-based procedures transforming the lives of those who suffer from lumbar spinal stenosis. It is effective in reducing leg pain by 75% at 60 months. The success of using this small implant is revolutionizing the way spinal stenosis is being treated. Vertiflex is covered by Medicare & Medicaid.

WHAT IS LUMBAR SPINAL STENOSIS?

Lumbar spinal stenosis, a common degenerative condition, is the result of aging and “wear and tear” on the spine from everyday activities. LSS causes significant pain, disability, functional impairment and diminished quality of life and affects more than 14 million patients. Symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis may be caused by a narrowing around your nerves. If spinal stenosis is left untreated, it can lead to significant and permanent nerve damage including paralysis and death. Myelopathy, which causes pressure on the spinal cord, often affects one’s gait and balance, grip strength, fine motor skills including dexterity, and changes in bowel or bladder function.

Your lower back (lumbar section of the spine) supports your body weight while you go about everyday life. It is susceptible to degenerative changes such as age-related disc degeneration or arthritis which can cause narrowing of the spinal canal also known as lumbar spinal stenosis.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF LUMBAR SPINAL STENOSIS?

Sciatica Pain – paid that radiates through your buttocks and/or legs
Numbness or tingling in your buttocks and/or legs
Weakness in your leg and foot
Pain relief when leaning forward or sitting

Are you a candidate for the Vertiflex procedure?
Ask yourself these questions:

Do you experience cramping, numbness, pain, or a tingling feeling in your legs, calves, or low buttocks?
Does your aching, dull back pain radiate through to your legs?
Do your symptoms improve when you sit, lean forward, lie on your back, or sit with your feet raised?

If so, you may be a candidate. If you suffer from sciatica or back pain, call our team of experts for a proper patient-centered diagnosis at (305) 974-5533, or book an appointment online.

Pre-Operative

Post-Operative

What is the Vertiflex procedure?

The Vertiflex Superion Indirect Decompression System procedure is an innovative, evidence-based treatment for lumbar spinal stenosis. This minimally invasive procedure uses a titanium implant that safely and effectively decompresses your spine and restores the lives of those suffering from lumbar spinal stenosis.

How does the Vertiflex Superion implant work?

The Vertiflex implant consists of a central supporting piece with two wing-like attachments. When it’s precisely inserted between two vertebrae, the doctor will open those wings, a depression in each wing cradles the spinous processes of the vertebrae above and below the device. Once the implant is in place, the implant gently holds the two bones apart, which enlarges the spinal canal and relieves pressure on the nerves. By doing so, your nerves are no longer being pinched and symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis are relieved.

How is the Vertiflex Superion implant inserted into your spine?

The Vertiflex procedure involves making an incision in the back. Our lumbar spinal stenosis specialists place a narrow tube (cannula) through the incision, then a series of tubes are placed over the first one. Each additional cannula is slightly larger than the previous one, so they gently enlarge the opening by stretching the surrounding tissues. By using a series of gradually enlarging cannulas, your muscles and connective tissues aren’t cut and they easily return to normal after your procedure. Our doctors then insert a titanium implant – Superion Indirect Decompression System. The dime-sized implant is precisely placed between two vertebrae which helps to hold them open. The placement of the Vertiflex device is made by a specialized x-ray technique called fluoroscopy. The procedure helps restore the natural space your nerves need to provide relief from your spinal stenosis symptoms by alleviating the narrowing that is pinching your nerves.