What Is Recovery From the Vertiflex® Procedure Like?
The unpleasant symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) can make engaging in your favorite activities and daily routines difficult. However, it’s possible to ease the pain associated with LSS by taking a gentle, less invasive and clinically approved approach. If your symptoms require more than conservative treatments, the Vertiflex procedure may be an option to consider.
What Is the Vertiflex Interspinous Spacer For?
The Vertiflex® interspinous spacer is a decompression device that alleviates LSS symptoms by relieving pressure on the nerves in the lumbar spine. This FDA-approved implant provides a safe, minimally invasive alternative to surgery. After undergoing this procedure, you may notice several improvements in your quality of life, including:
- Relief from LSS symptoms: The Vertiflex procedure offers both short-term and long-term relief for pain, numbness and other symptoms.
- Function improvement: You may see an increase in your endurance and mobility.
- Participation in more activities: You may be able to return to doing more of the activities you love.
What Does the Vertiflex Procedure Involve?
The process of implanting an interspinous spacer is a short and straightforward procedure that involves the following steps:
- The spacer is placed between the vertebrae through a small incision in your lower back using a dime-sized tube called a dilator.
- The implant acts as a blocker that restores the vertebrae to a natural position, increasing the nerves’ space to pass through the spinal column.
- The spacer’s arms or projections open and envelop the back of each vertebra, holding the implant in place.
How Long Does Recovery Take From the Vertiflex Procedure?
Patients typically enjoy a quick recovery time after the Vertiflex procedure. This rapid recovery is due to:
- Minimal adjustments: Tissue is moved rather than cut, reducing blood loss and tissue damage.
- Lower risk of infection: Since the procedure is only slightly invasive, the risk of infection and other potential after-effects is reduced.
- Higher implant stability: The Vertiflex interspinous spacer has projections that prevent it from being dislodged. Many patients experience no spine destabilization.
The Vertiflex procedure involves few side effects. You may experience soreness afterward, so it’s important to limit strenuous activities like lifting and bending for about six weeks after the operation. Your physician will advise you on proper post-operative care.
Schedule an Appointment at Spine INA Today
We want to relieve your pain and help you revive your life. Our board-certified specialists at Spine INA will work with you to ensure you receive the care you need. Schedule an appointment with us today.
This content was medically reviewed by Baher S. Yanni, MD, on April 19th, 2022.
