[clyde]

#6171

Hello, 5 years ago I had an ADR at L5-S1. Ever since then, my Facet pain has been off the charts. I have had many block injections and 5 or 6 Rhizotomies. They help about 50 percent. I was wondering if I could have a posterior fusion at that level to achieve permanent relief leaving the ADR in place. Thanks.

[Donald Corenman, MD, DC]

#6172

Unfortunately, one of the side effects of these lumbar artificial discs is the increased strain and motion of the facets. The facet blocks have indicated the source of continuing pain and unfortunately, the facet rhizotomies were unsuccessful.

Yes- the only way to relieve the pain is with a posterior instrumented fusion of L5-S1. The success rate for pain relief is about 85%.

Dr. Corenman

[texasspondy]

#6173

Dr. Corenman, is this a procedure that had to of been done overseas, Europe or something. I’m just curious as to my research or education on this is that in the U.S. it’s not approved except in the Neck or C area of the spine, and not the Lumbar, yes/no.
Appreciate the knowledge….

[Donald Corenman, MD, DC]

#6174

Lumbar artificial disc replacements (ADR) have been approved for the US market and have been implanted in the States for the last 5-6 years. My personal opinion is that the lumbar disc replacement is not currently the best treatment for lumbar degenerative disc disease. You will find surgeons who would disagree with me.

I think that in the appropriate case, the cervical disc replacement is a very good implant and there are good indications for its use. I implant cervical ADRs but I do not implant lumbar ADRs.

Dr. Corenman

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