A Less Invasive Surgical Procedure: The X-STOP Spacer

How the X-STOP Spacer Works

Typically, bending forward relieves the pain of lumbar spinal stenosis because it increases the space around the nerve.

 

The X-STOP Spacer uses the same principle. It’s a small implant that fits between two bones in the back of your spine, and is designed to create more space for the nerves to exit the spinal canal. This relieves pressure on the nerves, and may result in rapid relief from the symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis.

 

The X-STOP Spacer works with the anatomy of your body to stay in place:

• It does not alter the structurally important anatomy of your back.
• It’s not attached to bone or ligaments by screws or other hardware.

Surgery May No Longer Be a Last Resort

Traditionally, surgery has been seen as something to consider once all other available treatment options have failed. People often fear complications from the removal of structurally important bone during traditional surgeries for spinal stenosis. But many nonsurgical treatments provide only short-term relief by masking the symptoms.

 

Because the X-STOP Spacer procedure is less invasive, and may have a short recovery time, it’s no longer necessary to wait. Even patients with moderate symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis can consider it an option.

 

Who Can Benefit From the X-STOP Spacer

Patients who suffer from neurogenic intermittent claudication (NIC) due to lumbar spinal stenosis or spondylolisthesis may benefit from the X-STOP Spacer. If you find yourself bending over or sitting down to relieve pain, the X-STOP Spacer may be right for you.

Learn whether you’re a candidate

The X-STOP Spacer Procedure

The procedure to insert the X-STOP Spacer typically takes 45 to 90 minutes. In some patients it can be performed with local anesthesia on an outpatient basis. You and your doctor can determine what’s best for you.

 

Since there’s usually no removal of structurally important bone or soft tissue, as with a laminectomy, there is potential for a short recovery. Pain relief can be rapid. In fact, many people are up and walking the very next day.

Learn More

• Visit xstop.com
• Find a doctor familiar with X-STOP Spacer
• Attend a free seminar about X-STOP Spacer
• Request an X-STOP Spacer information kit

 

Who is a candidate for the X-Stop Procedure?

The X-STOP system is indicated for patients ages 50 or older who have lumbar spinal stenosis. A diagnosis of lumbar spinal stenosis should be confirmed by a doctor with X-ray, MRI or CT scans. The X-STOP system is indicated for patients with moderately impaired ability to function, who experience relief from their pain symptoms when bending forward. Patients receiving the X-STOP implant should have already been under a doctor’s care and getting non-surgical treatment for their symptoms for at least 6 months. The X-STOP implant may be implanted at one or two levels.

Who should not receive the X-Stop Procedure? 

The X-STOP system should not be used if you have: An allergy to titanium or titanium alloy (the X-STOP Implant is made from this metal); spinal anatomy that would prevent implantation of the device or cause the device to be unstable in your body; cauda equina syndrome, which is a spinal nerve compression that causes bowel or bladder dysfunction; bone fractures or a diagnosis of severe osteoporosis; an infection in your blood or anywhere near your lower back where the surgery is planned.

Possible Complications

Spinal surgery is not without risk. Specific information on the rates of complications for the X-STOP IPD System and spinal surgery should be discussed with your doctor.

 

Complications that may be associated with X-STOP IPD surgery include, but are not limited to, the following: Implant dislodgement (movement out of place); implant not positioned correctly; fracture of the spinous process; foreign body reaction (ex. allergic reaction); additional surgery, which could include removal of the X-STOP implant; mechanical failure of the implant.

 

Complications related to any type of surgery may include, but are not limited to, the following: Reaction to anesthesia; heart attack; infection, which could require medication or an operation; blood vessel damage/bleeding; bruising (hematoma); pneumonia; blood clots; wound closure problems; spinal cord or nerve damage; pain or discomfort; paralysis; stroke; death.

After the X-STOP Procedure

It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully in order to fully recover from surgery. Failure to follow post-operative care recommendations may result in recurrence of symptoms and discomfort. A stress fracture of the spinous process may occur if strenuous physical activity is resumed too soon post-operatively.

 

This treatment is prescribed by your doctor. It is not for everyone. Please talk with your doctor and see if it is right for you. Your doctor should discuss all potential benefits and risks with you. Although many patients benefit from the use of this treatment, approximately half of the patients who received the X-Stop device in the 2-year study experienced a degree of pain relief and the ability to increase their activity levels that was sufficient to be considered a successful outcome at 2 years after surgery.