Treatment and pain relief for Lumbar Spinal Stenosis (LSS)
When simple activities such as walking or standing become a burden, you may find relief from leg and back pain with the Vertiflex Procedure by Boston Scientific.
What is lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS)?
Leg and back pain may be the result of a condition called lumbar spinal stenosis. LSS leads to the narrowing of the space in the lower (or lumbar) spine where nerves pass through. The narrowing of the space causes constriction on the nerves, which may result in pain and discomfort down the back and into the legs.
Pain is usually worsened when standing or walking, and leaning forward or sitting down provides relief. For most people, LSS develops gradually over time and is most common in adults over the age of 60.
What causes LSS?
LSS is usually caused by normal wear and tear to the spine over time which leads to the narrowing of the spinal canal. This includes: osteoarthritis, degenerative disc disease (DDD), thickened ligaments, certain bone diseases. If left untreated, LSS can lead to significant and permanent nerve damage. Symptoms may affect your balance, functionality and ability to perform day-to-day activities.
How does the Vertiflex Procedure work?
The Vertiflex Procedure is a safe, minimally invasive treatment that has been clinically proven to provide effective long-term relief from the pain associated with LSS.
- FDA approved
- Same-day procedure
- Quick recovery time
- Covered by Medicare and several private insurance companies, based on medical necessity (Each insurance company and patient’s plan may vary. Please work with your physician to verify benefits and coverage.)
Placement: A small spacer is placed inside the spine without removal of any nearby bone or tissue.
Activation: Once inserted, the spacer’s arms open around the spinous processes (the bumps you can feel in your spine) to help make proper space for the affected nerves.
Relief: The spacer preserves the space in the spine, which keeps pressure off the nerves that cause leg and back pain.
How does the Vertiflex Procedure fit my pain?
The Vertiflex Procedure is intended to provide the same relief you experience when leaning forward or sitting down. It fits your pain by reducing or eliminating the pressure on the nerves caused by LSS. The spacer is also available in several different sizes to fit your anatomy.
Is the Vertiflex Procedure safe?
The Vertiflex Procedure was developed with patient safety and comfort in mind. Its minimally invasive approach is preferred among many doctors across the United States. General anesthesia is not required and there is minimal recovery time, getting you home the same day.The spacer is designed to support your existing anatomy and does not require removal of bone or tissue, making it a safe option for LSS treatment.
How effective is it?
The Vertiflex Procedure was the subject of an extremely thorough FDA clinical trial for LSS. Results from the trial proved the effectiveness of the procedure, with significant improvement in pain relief.
The procedure can be completed in an outpatient setting and most patients can return home within the same day.