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METRx:

The METRx System surgical procedure is a minimally invasive operation on the lumbar (low back) or cervical (neck) spine and requires only a very small incision. It allows the surgeon to remove only the portion of your ruptured disc, which is “pinching” the spinal nerve root. The patient is under anesthesia and a small incision is made over the disc space. The muscle is then dilated to avoid any unnecessary muscle damage. The ruptured disc is removed through the small tube and the wound is closed with sutures followed by a small bandage.

Balloon Kyphoplasty:

Balloon Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive treatment that can repair vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) caused by primary or secondary osteoporosis, cancer or benign lesions. Orthopedic balloons are used in an attempt to elevate the bone fragments of the fractured vertebra and return them to the correct position. Performed under local or general anesthesia, the procedure typically takes less than an hour and may require an overnight hospital stay.

For more information on Balloon Kyphoplasty, visit www.kyphon.com.

Dynesys Stabilization System:

The Dynesys System was designed to relieve lower back and leg pain resulting from some of the most common conditions of the spine, including stenosis and spondylolisthesis. During the surgical procedure for fusion, a small device is attached to both sides of the affected vertebrae. The Dynesys device is comprised of titanium alloy screws and external spacers made of surgical polyurethane (flexible plastic tubing) surrounding a polyethylene (nylon-like) cord. Once in place in the spine, the dynamic push-pull relationship between the spacer and the cord stabilizes the affected joints, therefore stabilizing the spinal segments as an adjunct to fusion.

Benefits to the Dynesys System:

The Dynesys System was created to give spine surgeons another approach to traditional fusion. The result is a unique spinal implant with several important benefits. This System is designed to:
- Relieve pain
- Stabilize the affected joints as an adjunct to fusion
- Preserve much of the spinal anatomy (facets)
- Allow for a minimally invasive procedure

For more information on the Dynesys Stabilization System, visit www.zimmer.com.