What is interspinous implant?

Interspinous implants are intended to restrict painful motion while otherwise enabling normal motion. The devices, also known as spacers, distract the spinous processes and restrict extension. Theoretically, this enlarges the neural foramen in patients with spinal stenosis and neurogenic claudication.

What is the success rate of the Vertiflex procedure?

84.1% success in function and symptoms at 5 years. > 70% reduction in leg pain at 5 years. 74.7% without reoperation at 5 years.

How long does Vertiflex last?

This implant is approved by the FDA and is effective for up to 5 years. This procedure is safe and effective. Not only will you be back on your feet in no time, but you will maintain your range of motion. Vertiflex recovery is very quick.

Is Coflex experimental?

Their hopes are soon dashed, however, when they find out their health insurer won’t cover the procedure. Anthem, Blue Shield, Aetna, Health Net, and others have been refusing to cover the procedure, known as Coflex surgery, claiming the procedure is experimental, investigational, or not medically necessary.

What is interspinous ligament?

Description. Interspinous ligament. This ligament is composed of thin sheets connecting the spinous processes (from roots to apexes) from C1-S1 one segment at a time. Anteriorly, Its fibres connect with ligamentum flavum, whilst posteriorly its fibres connect with the supraspinous ligament.

Can a Vertiflex dislodge?

Though the Vertiflex procedure is considered to be safe and effective, there are risks. In rare cases, the Superion implant could become dislodged or the spinous processes of your vertebrae could fracture when the implant is placed.

Can Vertiflex be removed?

The treatment is reversible, so the device can be removed. VertiFlex Superion is for patients whose pain has not responded to other non-operative treatments, like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and physical therapy, for at least six months.

Who is not a candidate for Vertiflex?

Who is not a candidate for the Vertiflex Procedure? Severe osteoporosis (DEXA scan or equivalent) in the spine or hip that is more than 2.5 S.D.

Is Coflex covered by Medicare?

Paradigm Spine’s Coflex interlaminar technology will now be covered by Medicare in Alabama, Georgia and Tennessee, according to International Business Times.

What is the function of interspinous ligaments?

Function. The role of the interspinous ligament is to limit flexion (bending forwards) through restricting separation of the spinous processes of the vertebral column.

What does interspinous ligament resist?

The lumbar interspinous ligaments functions in: Resisting flexion: predominately in its middle part (Heyling 1978 and Scapinelli et al 2006). Resisting extension: Prester et al (1985) found the interspinous ligament to limit backwards-shifting of the cranial vertebra in extension.