What Are Interspinous Process Spacers??
Interspinous process spacers are small, implantable devices used to treat certain types of back pain, particularly conditions related to spinal stenosis. These spacers are placed between the spinous processes (the bony protrusions at the back of the spine) to help create more space within the spinal canal. By doing so, they relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, offering pain relief and improving mobility. The procedure is considered minimally invasive, as it requires only a small incision and can often be performed in an outpatient setting.
Why Are Interspinous Process Spacers Used?
Interspinous process spacers are primarily used to treat lumbar spinal stenosis, a condition that occurs when the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the spinal nerves. This narrowing can cause back pain, leg pain, and difficulty standing or walking. Traditional treatments for spinal stenosis include physical therapy, pain medications, or more invasive spinal surgery. However, interspinous spacers offer a minimally invasive procedure option for patients who may not be candidates for more invasive surgery or who are seeking faster recovery times with fewer risks of complications.
Conditions That Can Be Treated with Interspinous Process Spacers
Interspinous process spacers are effective in treating several spinal conditions, particularly those that involve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. These conditions include:
- Lumbar spinal stenosis: The most common reason for using interspinous spacers, lumbar spinal stenosis involves the narrowing of the spinal canal in the lumbar spine, which puts pressure on the spinal nerves.
- Neurogenic claudication: A condition characterized by leg pain or weakness that occurs when standing or walking, often due to nerve compression in the lower back.
- Facet disease: The spacers may also relieve pressure on the facet joints, which can become inflamed and cause back pain.
Why Choose Lone Star
Spine and Pain Institute?
Lone Star Spine and Pain Institute is a leader in patient-centered care, combining evidence-based chiropractic methods, tailored rehabilitation exercises, and cutting-edge technology. We’ve supported over 100,000 people in the San Marcos and New Braunfels area in achieving pain-free lives.
What to Expect from Interspinous Process Spacers
The interspinous spacer procedure is a minimally invasive surgical technique performed through a small incision in the back. During the procedure, the surgeon uses fluoroscopic guidance to position the spacer between the two spinous processes of the affected vertebrae. Once inserted, the spacer’s arms open to provide gentle pressure that helps hold the vertebrae apart, relieving pressure on the spinal nerves.
Anesthesia
The procedure can be performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the patient's condition and individual anatomy.
Operating time
The surgery is relatively quick, with minimal blood loss and reduced risks of surgical complications.
Recovery
Most patients are able to go home the same day, with faster recovery compared to traditional back surgery.
Expected Results and Side Effects
Interspinous process spacers offer significant benefits for patients with lumbar spinal stenosis and other conditions. Most patients experience relief from painful symptoms within a few days to weeks after surgery, with improved ability to stand upright, walk, and perform normal activities.
Expected results include:
- Relief from back pain and leg pain
- Improved mobility and quality of life
- A return to light activity shortly after the procedure
Potential side effects and complications are rare but may include:
- Spacer dislodgement or need for additional surgery
- Infections at the skin incision site
- Mild discomfort or bruising at the surgical site
- Less commonly, nerve damage or spinal fluid leaks
Interspinous Process Spacers FAQs
Patients with lumbar spinal stenosis who are experiencing back pain, leg pain, or difficulty standing may be good candidates for this minimally invasive procedure. Those who want to avoid the risks of more invasive surgery, such as open decompression, may also benefit from the spacers.
Most patients recover quickly, returning to light activity within a few days to weeks. Full recovery varies, but patients can usually expect to resume normal daily activities within a few months. Strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided during the initial recovery phase.
The procedure is minimally invasive, with a shorter recovery time and fewer complications than traditional back surgery. Patients often experience immediate pain relief and improved ability to perform normal activities.
While rare, potential complications include infection, spacer dislodgement, and nerve damage. The risk of complications is lower than with more invasive spinal surgeries, such as decompressive laminectomy or spinal fusion.
Yes, patients may benefit from additional conservative treatment options such as physical therapy or pain medications. In severe cases or if the spacers don’t provide adequate relief, decompressive surgery or other procedures may be recommended in the future.
