An innovative implant is providing an alternative to spinal fusion.
Understanding Spine Disorders
The spine is essential to providing structure and movement to the body. When it becomes damaged, it can cause debilitating pain and symptoms that impact quality of life.
Conditions that impact the spine include spondylolisthesis, which occurs when a vertebra slips out of alignment and puts pressure on the vertebra below it. This can cause pain and stiffness, commonly in the lower back. Another condition is spinal stenosis, which refers to the narrowing of space in the spinal canal. This pinches the spinal cord, leading to pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness.
New Solutions
While spinal fusion has traditionally been used to treat conditions such as these, advancements in implant technology are providing new solutions. The Total Posterior Spine (TOPS) system is an FDA-approved spinal implant system developed by Premia Spine and used as a motion-preserving alternative to spinal fusion. It is installed following spinal decompression surgery, replacing the bony and soft tissues removed during the procedure. The TOPS system functions as an artificial joint replacement, providing stability and pain relief.
Benefits to Patients
- Preserved motion. Unlike spinal fusion, which prevents movement at the operative site, the TOPS system preserves a controlled range of movement in all directions. Patients can regain their ability to bend, flex, and walk normally.
- Reduced stress. Spinal fusion can place stress on adjacent levels in the spine. The TOPS system, on the other hand, reduces strain on neighboring segments, ideally helping prevent adjacent level disease.
- Improved quality of life. Patients typically experience immediate pain relief and sustained improvement following surgery, allowing them to return to everyday activities free from pain.
Meet the Author
Rachel Studebaker, BA, English, Summa Cum Laude
Rachel Studebaker is a graduate of Lee University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in advertising with the distinction of summa cum laude and served as editor-in-chief of the university’s biannual magazine, The Vindagua. After graduation, Rachel joined CMC Media & Marketing Group as an editor. Today, she serves as managing editor and is responsible for leading the editorial team in the development and completion of content for 17 publications involving health & wellness, business, sports, and lifestyle published in print and online for HealthScope® and CityScope® magazines as well as Choose Chattanooga® and Choose Huntsville™ – premier publications serving Southeast Tennessee, North Georgia, and North Alabama. In addition to writing, editing, and coordinating copy, Rachel oversees networking and reputation management for the company’s publications. In her free time, she enjoys reading, hiking, attending concerts, trying new restaurants, and traveling with her husband.
