Biologics, and Traditional Fusion Techniques via PLIF, ALIF and TLIF
Although Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusions, Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusions, Transforaminal Lumbar
Spine Interbody Fusions are not new, the implants instrumentation, and biologics used to accomplish fusion are evolving constantly. Dr. Masciale is a proponent of the use of PEEK which mimics the material properties of bone and reduces the incidence of subsidence. Improved biologics, including TCP with bioglass, adjuctive iliac marrow aspirate, concentrated stem-cell rich aspirate, nonceramic bone substitute scaffolds and bone morphogenic protein can be used with local bone to accomplish
spinal fusion and avoid taking bone graft from the pelvis.
http://www.orthovita.com/vitoss/ http://www.istotech.com/inqu-bone-graft-substitute.html http://www.harvesttech.com/pdf/technprofile_v5_111606.pdf
iFuse Sacroiliac Arthrodesis
IFuse minimally invasive sacroiliac arthrodesis permits surgical stabilization and fusion across the sacroiliac joint for chronic painful sacroiliac conditions related to prior lumbar fusion, local traumatic or inflammatory arthritis, or hypermobility incurred subsequent to childbirth.
Kyphoplasty
This is a minimally invasive means of stabilizing painful fractured
spinal vertebra with use of expandable balloons and specialized bone cement. These fractures commonly occur in the elderly with osteoporosis.
http://spinalfracture.com/understand/understand3.aspx?gclid=CLjr7JWju54CFSWjagodZQ8elA
Spinal Cord Stimulation
Dr. Masciale works with various interventional pain management professionals, and in those patients who have clinically showed the likelihood of benefiting, will place Dorsal
Spinal Column Stimulator Paddle Leads with Implantable Battery via surgically created thoracic laminectomy.
http://www.professional.medtronic.com/interventions/spinal-cord-stimulation/
Cervical Disc and Lumbar Arthroplasty
This technique allows decompression of the spinal cord and exiting nerve roots, while permitting more rapid recovery and return to normal lifestyle as a
spinal fusion is not necessary. Other benefits include maintenance of motion, and reduced chance of transfer lesions developing at adjacent segments.
http://www.prestigedisc.com/
XLIF Extreme Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion
This technique employs small incisions on the side of the torso, permitting a less invasive access to the spine for stabilization purposes. Blood loss is minimized and less soft tissue dissection results in diminished postoperative pain and more rapid mobilization and recovery.
http://www.xlif.com/
X-Stop
This technique can afford relief to many patients with classic neurogenic claudication by means of indirect decompression with use of this interspinous process implant. It has benefited many individuals who medically would not tolerate more complex surgeries, or patients seeking less invasive alternatives to traditional laminectomy.
http://www.xstop.com/
AxiaLIF Transsacral Lumbar Interbody Fusion
This technique employs a small incision near the tailbone to access the L5 disc space via specialized instrumentation, and for many individuals with chronic discogenic pain offers the least invasive surgical means of treating this problem, with rapid recovery and return to normal lifestyle.
http://www.trans1.com/
Semi-rigid Fixation
Dr. Masciale employs specialized implants or instrumentation in certain clinic scenarios that permit non-rigid fixation, especially in the prevention of instabilities with decompression. They are especially useful in treatment of some types of deformities requiring decompression with degenerative scoliosis, and to stabilize motion at early degenerative segments adjacent to levels requiring fusion.
http://www.zimmer.com/z/ctl/op/global/action/1/id/9165/template/IN
http://www.scientxusa.com/
Other favorite Sites:
Spine Universe
http://www.spineuniverse.com
All about back and neck pain
http://www.allaboutbackandneckpain.com/index.asp
North American Spine Society
http://www.spine.org/
