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by Brett A. Osborn, D.O.

The surgical treatment of degenerative lumbar spine disease often involves fixation or fusion of the involved vertebrae with titanium “screws and rods.”  These procedures are rather invasive and require significant recovery times.  A less invasive option offered by the neurosurgeons at St. Mary’s Medical Center is The Aspen Spinous Process Fixation System.

The “Aspen” is a non-pedicle supplemental fixation device.  Typically implanted through a small incision, the device is secured to the spinous processes (bony prominences on one’s back) of the involved vertebrae.  This eliminates movement and in time, promotes fusion akin to pedicle screws.  It is intended for the purpose of achieving supplemental fusion in the following conditions:

• Degenerative disc disease (defined as back pain of discogenic origin with degeneration of the disc confirmed by history and radiographic studies)
• Spondylolisthesis
• Trauma (i.e., fracture or dislocation)
• Tumor

For more information regarding the Aspen Spinous Process Fixation System, please contact St. Mary’s Neurosurgery:  (304) 525-6825.