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The X•STOP® is a new treatment option for patients suffering from lumbar spinal stenosis which is a common condition that occurs in elderly patients due to the natural aging process.
Significant arthritis of the spine can now be treated with this new minimally invasive procedure under local anesthesia and only requires an overnight stay in the hospital. The spacer is made of titanium and fits between the spinous process of the vertebrae in the lumbar spine. X•Stop® is designed to remain safely and permanently in place without attaching to the bone or ligaments in your back. A small skin incision is necessary to implant this device which has been performed in over 5,000 patients.
Each year, millions of seniors have restrictions of their activity due to the natural aging of the spine. Fortunately, this breakthrough technology has allowed patients to return to a quality of life where they can once again become active and enjoy recreational activities such as golf, tennis and water sports.
Due to the minimally invasive nature, there is faster recovery and a lower complication rate. The X•Stop® may be an alternative to the more invasive procedure such as a laminectomy and fusion. This new procedure has lower risks when performed on senior patients and usually can be performed in less than one hour.
Most patients, who have undergone the procedure, have seen immediate improvement in back, buttock and leg pain and have been able to return to significant activity within a week or two after the procedure. It does not require any postoperative bracing. Sutures are removed within 6-7 days and minor medication may be given for pain control.
I am pleased to report that the first series of patients at Bethesda Memorial Hospital have undergone the new minimally invasive procedure and have met with excellent outcomes.
The Food and Drug Administration approved the minimally invasive procedure known as the Interspinous Process Decompression System, (X•STOP®), in November of 2005.
If you are a candidate for the X•Stop® procedure, contact Stewart G. Eidelson, M.D.
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