What Is an InterSpinous Spacer?
The Vertiflex Superion® Interspinous Spacer by Boston Scientific is a small, implantable medical device used to treat certain spinal conditions, particularly lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). It is placed between two vertebrae in the lower back to help relieve pressure on the spinal nerves by increasing the space between the vertebrae and reducing compression. The spacer lifts and separates the vertebrae, opening up the spinal canal to alleviate pressure on the spinal nerves. Unlike spinal fusion surgery, which limits movement by permanently joining bones together, the Interspinous Spacer allows the spine to maintain some degree of natural motion, especially in flexion (forward bending).
What Do InterSpinous Spacers Treat?
The primary use of an Interspinous Spacer is to alleviate symptoms caused by lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS), a condition where the spinal canal narrows and compresses the nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness in the back, buttocks, or legs. Symptoms of LSS often worsen when standing or walking and improve with sitting or leaning forward—a hallmark sign of the condition.
How Does the Procedure Work?
The procedure is typically performed under local or general anesthesia through a small incision in the back. Using specialized tools, the surgeon places the Interspinous Spacer between the spinous processes—the bony projections at the back of each vertebra. The spacer acts like a wedge, maintaining separation between the vertebrae. The incision is closed, and patients generally experience faster recovery times compared to more invasive surgeries like spinal fusion.
What Are the Risks?
While interspinous spacer procedures are generally considered minimally invasive and lower-risk than some other spinal surgeries, there are still potential risks and complications. As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection at the incision site or deeper in the tissues. Proper surgical technique and post-operative care can help minimize this risk. In some cases, the spacer may shift from its intended position, leading to a recurrence of symptoms or new issues with the spine. This may require revision surgery to correct.
Benefits of Interspinous Spacers
Compared to spinal fusion or laminectomy (removal of part of the vertebra), the Interspinous Spacer procedure is less invasive and typically involves a shorter recovery time. The Vertiflex Superion® Interspinous Spacer allows the spine to move naturally while providing relief, unlike fusion, which restricts movement. By decompressing the nerves, the spacer helps alleviate pain and improves mobility. With a quick recovery time, many patients can go home the same day or shortly after surgery.
Boston Scientific has conducted randomized controlled trials and found the following results:
- 66% improvement in back pain
- 75% improvement in leg pain
- 85% opioid use reduction
- 90% satisfaction rate
For more information on the Vertiflex Superion procedure, visit Boston Scientific’s site at https://www.pain.com/en/chronic-pain-solutions/vertiflex-procedure/living-with-vertiflex.html