Vertiflex, a minimally invasive procedure developed by Boston Scientific, offers relief for individuals suffering from lumbar spinal stenosis. This is a condition where the spaces within your spine narrow, putting pressure on the nerves and causing pain. This procedure is designed to ease that pressure without the need for major surgery. The Superion InterSpinous Spacer is an implant that lifts and separates your vertebrae. The Superion implant makes more room for the spinal nerves, relieving painful compression.

Procedure

To begin, you’ll lie face down on the operating table. A medication is then administered to help you relax and ensure that you’re comfortable during the procedure. Then your lower back will be numbed, typically using a local anesthetic, to minimize any discomfort. Once you are prepared, the surgeon may either make a small incision in your back or work through a tube called a “cannula.” This approach allows for minimal disruption to surrounding tissues, making recovery quicker and easier compared to traditional surgery.

A key aspect of the procedure is the use of a fluoroscope, an advanced imaging tool that provides real-time X-ray video. With this guidance, the surgeon precisely inserts the Superion implant, which is the core of the Vertiflex procedure. The implant is carefully positioned between the spinous processes of your vertebrae—these are the bony protrusions you can feel along the back of your spine. Once in place, the Superion implant expands, gently pushing the vertebrae apart. This expansion alleviates the pressure on the spinal nerves, providing significant pain relief for many patients.

After the implant is securely positioned, the incision site is closed, and a small bandage is applied to cover it. The procedure typically takes less than an hour, and most patients are able to return home the same day. Your healthcare provider will monitor your recovery briefly before you leave and will offer post-procedure care instructions to aid your healing process.

Visit Us

If you’re experiencing back pain related to spinal stenosis and want to explore whether Vertiflex could be a suitable solution for you, contact the specialists at University Pain and Spine Center. Our experienced team, serving both New York and New Jersey, will guide you through the process and help you make an informed decision about your treatment options. Don’t let back pain control your life. Visit us today to find out how Vertiflex can help you regain comfort and mobility.