So-called vertebral slippage, in which a crack develops in the semi-circular vertebral canal and the vertebra slides forward (technical term: spondylosis), is a congenital (or very early-developing) instability in the lumbar spinal column region. Vertebral slippage (pseudospondylosis) can, however, also develop through wear and tear, degeneration, or following disc surgery. If distinct pain remains despite intensive, conservative therapy, or minimally invasive treatment, surgical reinforcement of the affected spinal region should be taken into consideration.

Surgical technique

In full narcosis, a circa ten centimeter incision is made over the spinal column. The surgeon carefully detaches the musculature from the vertebrae. Under microscopic observation, he then opens the vertebral canal, relieves pinched spinal nerves, and clears out the disc area completely. He slides the vertebra back into the proper position, and inserts implants made of carbon, plastic, titanium, or the patient's own bone material in the cleared out area. These implants ensure that the vertebrae grow together (meld) in proper position to and in proper distance from one another. In order to achieve definite melding, the doctor affixes titanium screws to the vertebra. As an alternative to this procedure from behind, the implants can also be brought in through the abdomine (ventral, retroperitoneal entry).

Indication

• congenital or developed instability of the lumbar spinal column (development of vertebral slipping)

• therapy-resistant, chronic pain syndrome following numerous spinal operations (post-laminectomy/post-discotomy syndrome)

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