Colflex Procedure for Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is a condition that narrows the cervical (neck) or lumbar (back) spinal canal, which in turn compresses the nerve roots that run through it. Sstenosis causes back, leg and neck pain, numbness in the buttocks, thighs or calves, pain that worsens with walking or exercise, leg weakness, and difficulty with walking and balance. Stenosis is typically treated with anti-inflammatory medication and pain relievers, and physical therapy to aid with posture and walking. Surgery is recommended when other measures to control spinal stenosis are not successful; Coflex is a metal implant that is used in certain procedures.

Coflex Implant

• Coflex is a surgical implant that is currently not approved for use in the United States; however, as of January 2010 the Food and Drug Administration is currently evaluating it for safety and effectiveness. It is available in five different sizes, and its titanium alloy construction makes it visible on X-rays. According to Paradigm Spine, it is less invasive than other types of spinal stenosis surgical procedures, and it can even be removed.

  The Coflex implant is designed to help the spine re-stabilize after decompression surgery by functioning as a spacer within the spinal canal. Decompression surgery is performed to release pressure on compressed nerves by removing thickened ligaments, thickened joints, bony spurs and prolapsed or herniated disc tissue from the spinal column.

  The Coflex implant is implanted within the spinal canal, with the application of a mallet ensuring that it is firmly implanted into the bone. On either side of the Coflex implant are metal "wings"; these wings are often crimped against the bone in order to guarantee sufficient contact with the bone. The precise placement of the Coflex implant provides the spine with stabilization and proper height of the segment where the implant has been placed. The placement of the Coflex implant also ensures that previously irritated nerves will not be subjected to any further irritation. While the Coflex implant will not shift position, it will compress in on itself if you bend backwards, so you are able to maintain full mobility even after it has been implanted.

Outlook

• The FDA recognizes the Coflex implant's success in other parts of the world, but mandates that clinical trials be conducted in order to ensure its effectiveness compared to other types of spacing and fusion techniques after decompression surgery.