If you have been diagnosed with spinal stenosis, you know how incredibly painful it can be. The vertebral bones that surround your spine and nerves may create a channel so narrow that you are in constant discomfort. Something called an X-STOP implant might be able to provide you with relief. Here is a short guide to the procedure so that you can get some idea of whether or not it is something you want to explore.
What is an X-STOP Implant?
An X-STOP implant is a piece of titanium that is inserted into your spine at the bony parts of the affected vertebrae, where you can usually feel if you run your fingers up and down your spine. The titanium implant acts as a cushion to prevent your nerves and spinal cord from being compressed any longer. The result of this is that you should feel less pain.
The procedure is generally done with general anesthesia, although in some cases a local anesthetic is used. An implant can be put in and you can go home the same day, most of the time.
How Does It Compare to Other Procedures?
Another common procedure to ease spinal stenosis is the laminectomy. In a laminectomy, actual parts of the vertebrae are removed in order to avoid pinching of the spine and nerves. Because it is a more invasive operation, the recovery time is extended.
One benefit to having an X-STOP implant put in is that if you continue to have problems, you can have options in that you can choose a laminectomy. If you have a laminectomy and continue to have problems in the same spot, an implant may no longer be appropriate.
Who Should Not Have These Implants?
If you have extensive narrowing of your spinal column throughout the length of your spine, a doctor might not recommend X-STOP implants because you may need a more complete solution. Being allergic to titanium is another thing that may prevent you from benefiting from these implants. Poor bone density and osteoporosis are other conditions that could mean these implants are not right for you. Medical professionals can provide you with more information after hearing more about your particular medical history and looking at the current state of your spinal column.
After reading about X-STOP implants, you might want to talk your doctor about it. They may refer you to a spine surgeon to discuss the procedure and whether you are a good candidate.
For more information, contact a clinic like The Advanced Spine Center.
Share8 July 2016
When my mother fell at home and broke her hip, we all thought that we were going to have no choice to put her in a nursing home when she got out of the hospital. My mother had always asked us kids to avoid putting her in any kind of home, but we didn’t know what else we could do. None of us were capable of giving her the kind of rehabilitation and care that she needed. Then her doctor suggested that we find out if her insurance covered in-home care. I didn’t even know that that was an option. I was pleased to discover that in-home care was covered by her plan. Now she gets great care from nurses and nurse assistants that come right to her in her home, where she wants to be. It’s a great option, and I’m so glad we have it.
