Spinal Disc Replacement
- an alternative to spinal disc fusion
Preserving Spine Motion
Spinal disc replacements are increasingly becoming a preferred way to preserve spine motion and an alternative to fusion procedures which may lead to more rapid degeneration adjacent to the fusion, loss of flexibility and the need for possible future surgeries. Approved by the FDA in 2007, cervical disc replacements are now common, and Dr. J. Alex Sielatycki has performed over 400 of these procedures. SOSI is currently involved in trials toward FDA approval of more complicated lumbar disc replacements.
“The spine is not a rigid structure, by design, it is intended to move. Every time you move – sit, stand, bend, twist – it’s part of a kinetic chain that includes everything from the ground up, from your feet through your legs to your hips and pelvis to the spine.” - Dr. J. Alex Sielatycki
Dr. J. Alex Sielatycki, brings his strong interest and expertise in spine motion preservation to SOSI. The use of disc replacements throughout the spine provides an alternative to spinal disc fusion procedures, which may lead to more rapid degeneration adjacent to the fusion, loss of flexibility and the need for future surgeries.
Advancements in Lumbar Spine Replacements
Although disc replacements are common in the upper or cervical spine, due to the complex anatomy and the difficulty in working around nerves, joint replacements are not yet as common in the lower spine.
Currently Dr. Sielatycki, SOSI and the Steamboat Surgery Center are involved in a clinical trial performing the new BalancedBack Total Joint Replacement surgery of the lumbar spine segment using the breakthrough 3Spine MOTUS lumbar device, as is an alternative to spinal fusion surgery. This clinical series is moving the new device toward FDA approval. By maintaining or restoring motion of the lumbar discs, pain is relieved and collateral damage to adjacent segments is minimized.
“We have known for decades that lumbar spinal fusion surgery can have substantial negative downstream effects on spinal motion and overall spinal health, but truly effective alternatives to fusion have been elusive. With this lumbar total joint replacement technology, I believe we have an answer to this decades-long problem which has plagued so many patients. “ - Dr. J. Alex Sielatycki
Dr. Sielatycki is currently enrolling patients in the FDA clinical trial for the 3Spine BalancedBack Total Lumbar Joint Replacement, as well as into the standard of care “control” arm of the study.