Motion preservation Spine Surgery

What is motion preservation spine surgery?

Motion preservation spine surgery is a type of surgical procedure that aims to maintain or restore normal movement and function of the spine. This type of surgery is typically used to treat conditions such as degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, and other spinal disorders that affect the motion of the spine. Unlike traditional spine surgery, which may involve removing damaged or diseased spinal discs or fusing vertebrae together, Motion Preserving Spine Surgery involves techniques that preserve the natural movement of the spine. Various surgical methods have been created to maintain motion in the lumbar spine, such as total disc replacement, partial disc (nucleus) replacement, interspinous spacers, dynamic stabilization devices, and total facet replacement devices. The goal of motion preservation surgery is to alleviate pain and improve function while maintaining the natural movement and stability of the spine. 

Advantages of motion preservation surgery:

• Preserves natural movement: The primary advantage of motion preservation spine surgery is that it aims to maintain or restore the normal movement of the spine. This can help prevent stiffness and loss of function that may occur with traditional spinal fusion surgery.
• Reduced risk of adjacent segment disease: Adjacent segment disease is a potential complication of spinal fusion surgery, where the vertebrae above and below the fused area experience increased stress and may develop problems. Motion preservation surgery can help reduce the risk of this complication by preserving the natural movement of the spine. 
• Faster recovery time: Motion preservation spine surgery is typically less invasive than traditional spine surgery, resulting in smaller incisions, less tissue damage, and a faster recovery time. This can help patients return to their daily activities sooner.

Common Procedures under Motion preservation surgery: 

1. Artificial disc replacement

Artificial disc replacement procedure involves removing a damaged or diseased spinal disc and replacing it with an artificial one. This allows for continued movement and flexibility of the spine. Artificial disc involves 3D printed implants which are customized to the patient’s anatomy, making it a more precise and effective treatment option. It is beneficial for lumbar disc replacement in the lower back or cervical disc replacement in the neck.

2. Dynamic stabilization

Dynamic stabilization is an advanced motion preservation technology that supports the spine while maintaining its natural movement. Unlike traditional spinal fusion, which restricts motion, dynamic stabilization allows controlled flexibility, reducing the risk of adjacent segment degeneration and providing long-term spinal health benefits.

One of the key systems we use for this is the Dynesys Dynamic Stabilization System. This state-of-the-art system is placed posteriorly and consists of a polymer cord with titanium crimps and a silicone core covered by a polyester mesh. The Dynesys system stabilizes the spine without fusing the vertebrae, allowing the spine to move naturally while preventing further degeneration or instability. By combining pedicle screws and flexible rods, it offers a perfect balance of stability and motion preservation, making it an ideal solution for many spinal conditions.

As pioneers in India for dynamic stabilization procedures, we have performed the highest number of surgeries using the Dynesys system. Our expertise and vast experience ensure that patients receive the best possible care and outcomes, restoring mobility and improving quality of life.

 3. Minimally invasive techniques

These procedures use small incisions and specialized instruments to access and treat the affected area of the spine, resulting in less tissue damage and a faster recovery time. This can include techniques such as microdiscectomy or Endoscopic spine surgery, which is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat conditions like herniated discs and spinal stenosis. This approach allows for quicker recovery while minimizing tissue damage, complementing our goal of preserving spinal function and mobility.

4. Interspinous Process Spacers

These are small devices placed between the spinous processes (bony protrusions on the back of the vertebrae) to help relieve pressure and maintain the natural spacing of the spinal column. This can help alleviate symptoms of spinal stenosis and other conditions that cause nerve compression in the spine.

5. Facet Joint Replacement

This procedure involves removing the damaged facet joints and replacing them with artificial ones. This can help restore normal movement and alleviate pain caused by facet joint arthritis.

6. Nucleus Replacement

This procedure involves removing the damaged or degenerated nucleus (gel-like center) of the disc and replacing it with an artificial material. This can help preserve the natural motion of the spine while also providing support and stability.