Spinal implants are devices that are used to replace damaged or diseased parts of the spine. The goal of the implant is to restore the spine’s natural function and relieve pain. While the older population is growing, spinal implant manufacturers are also advancing their capabilities with the most current technology advances to improve the quality of surgeries. Additionally, rising population density and increased health consciousness among the general public are driving market expansion of the industry. It is also anticipated that greater patient understanding of these procedures will stimulate market expansion.
Here are some commonly asked questions regarding spinal implant surgery:
When do you require back surgery/ spinal implant surgery?
Always decide whether back surgery is necessary after exploring all nonsurgical options and treatments, such as heat, ice, massage, physiotherapy etc. In situations in which the pain is directly related to mechanical abnormalities in the spine and it continues despite treatment, it may be time to consult a specialist about the possibility of surgical intervention.
Back surgery is required when the nerves are squeezed due to a variety of causes.
Bone overgrowth: Patients with osteoarthritis may develop bone spurs on their spines. This enormous bone affects the spinal column’s back hinge joints and reduces the room for nerves to pass through the apertures in the spine.
Herniated or bulging discs, which act as cushions between the spine’s bones, can occasionally cause the spine to become dysfunctional because they firmly press against the spinal nerve.
Spinal arthritis: Spinal arthritis can create a number of movements between a person’s two vertebrae, making the spine incredibly weak. It may result in spinal stenosis and a narrowing of the spinal canal if the condition persists and the patient does not treat the issue.
Trauma: In most cases, broken vertebrae can mend on their own without needing any treatment, however in the event that this does not occur, spinal implants are required. A spinal implant can completely repair the vertebrae and regain stability. Even when an X-ray reveals disc issues or even a bone spur, it can be difficult to determine the precise cause of back discomfort.
Scoliosis: People who have disabilities like cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy may develop scoliosis. A posterior spinal fusion, which offers better adjustments with fewer fusion levels (keeping more back mobility) than what was done previously, is the most popular surgical procedure for scoliosis today.
Who benefits from Spinal Implant Surgery help?
Spinal implants are highly effective at fusing the spine or correcting spinal abnormalities. The following are a few conditions that frequently benefit from implants:
- Spinal slippage or spondylolisthesis
- Degenerative disc disease that is ongoing
- fractured after trauma
- Scoliosis
What are the different types of Spinal Implants?
Lumbar implants are tools that surgeons employ to support and decompress the spine (low back). It is possible to split the implants used in lumbar fusion surgery into two groups:
- Implants that are placed in the interbody space
- Implants that stabilizes the spine by applying pressure on it
Lumbar (low back) stabilization implants are designed to:
- Assist in lumbar spine alignment restoration and maintenance
- Keep the spine stable and fastened during fusion
As soon as fusion has taken place, stabilization implants cease to function, hence they are regarded as transient devices. After firm fusion, they may be taken out if deemed necessary. However, implants are typically left in place.
Examples of implants are as follows:
Interbody Cages
During treatment cages made of titanium and PEEK are often used. These could be used in the Lumbar and Cervical regions depending on the treatment. The cages have contours and are lordosed with spikes. This lessens interbody cage loosening and aids in preventing fusion disruption.
Spinal Plates
During treatment in the cervical (neck) region, Plates with screws are placed in the anterior (frontal) region of the spine. This helps in restoring the biomechanics of the spine to a large extent. Plates are also used in the lumbar region (lower back) especially during ALIF. Plates prevent the interbody cages from migration.
Pedicle screws
Pedicle screws are constructed of metal, typically titanium or stainless steel, and come in a variety of diameters and lengths. These specially created screws are inserted into the vertebral body from the back through the hole of the cylinder-shaped pedicle. Pedicle screws are popular among surgeons because they offer a secure anchor for the spine. Frequently, screws are inserted into a vertebra’s two pedicles. In order to establish a stable fixation so that fusion may take place, the pedicle screws are next joined to rods or plates that extend to neighboring vertebrae.
Rods
Rods connect hooks, which are attached over the lamina’s tops. Pedicle screws have essentially taken the position of hooks in modern surgery, while hooks are occasionally added to pedicle screw fixation.
To prevent movement, wires and cables are wrapped around the lamina or spinous processes and then tightened. Wires and cables are rarely employed in the surgical management of lumbar degenerative diseases.
Crosslinks
To join two long rods or plates together, use one or two crosslinks. Crosslinks give lengthy implant structures more stability. They are constructed from the same materials as the plates and rods they connect to.
Patients who are seeking therapy for low back pain and degenerative lumbar illnesses may find it encouraging to learn about the great outcomes that others have experienced as a result of decompression and stabilization treatments using spinal implants. Make sure to go over all of your treatment choices with the surgeon, who can advise you on the best course of action for your specific lumbar problem.
