The new interbody fusion systems utilize an innovative threaded titanium cage for spinal fusion. The technique is less invasive than other methods. The cages are small, hollow threaded titanium cylinders used to restore the degenerated disc space to or near its original height, relieving any pressure on the patient's nerves. The clinical outcomes of the cage interbody fusion study, which were reviewed by the FDA, have shown significant reductions in pain and increases in activity levels compared to other fusion methods.

During the surgery, portions of the painful disc and a small amount of bone areremoved, allowing implant insertion. A small amount of bone is then taken from the pelvis and packed inside the cage implants. This allows the bone to grow through and around the implant fusing the vertebral bodies and relieves the patient's pain. The interbody cage fusion system is implanted from the front (anterior) when possible, as recovery and postoperative pain are lessened. However, the decision on surgical approach is based upon the patient's condition.

For a look at Dr Amundson's before and after xrays please click here.

ADVANTAGES OF INTERBODY CAGE FUSION

Based upon the findings of the FDA clinical study and comparisons to other fusion methods, the cage interbody fusion system offers many advantages over traditional fusion methods.

The following are some of the advantages:

The procedure has been found to have a low overall complication rate.
The amount of blood loss during surgery can be much less than other types of spinal fusion.
Postoperative pain may be minimized through a decrease in the amount of surgical intervention.
Operative procedure and length of stay in the hospital can be less than other fusion methods.
Return to daily activities can be much quicker.

RESULTS OF INTERBODY CAGE FUSION PROCEDURE

These findings follow the general trend in medical care toward less invasivesurgical techniques that provide better outcomes for patients. The first FDA controlled clinical study on interbody cage fusions includes 947 patients. The clinical success rates for patients at two years after surgery were measured in the following areas:

Measurement

Patients reporting favorable outcome - 89%

Function maintained or improved - 94%

Pain improvement - 85%

Strength maintained or improved - 94%

Fusion rate - 91%


(As the numbers reflect, an exciting advance compared to previously available techniques.)