Enjoying Life

It’s important to understand what spinal fusion is and how it is accomplished. The spine is made up of a series of bones called vertebrae. Between each vertebra are strong connective tissues which hold them together and act as a cushion between them. These discs let your back bend and rotate.

Traditional spinal fusion is a surgical technique in which one or more of the vertebrae of the spine are united or fused together which means that motion will no longer occur between them. The concept of spinal fusion is similar to that of welding metal. Traditional spinal fusion surgery, however, does not weld the vertebrae during the operation. During spinal fusion procedures bone grafts are placed around the spine. The body then heals the grafts over several months - like healing a fracture - which joins the vertebrae together.

The new Dynesys® Spinal System stabilizes without fusion.

The Spine and Back Center at Rush University Medical Center is now offering a new technique, the Dynesys® Spinal System, to stabilize the spine without fusion.  The Dynesys system uses the same surgical approach of traditional surgery, but employs flexible materials instead of rigid stainless steel or titanium typically used. The flexible material supports the spine and preserves anatomical structures without rigidity.

During the procedure, a small device is attached to both sides of the affected vertebrae. The Dynesys device is comprised of titanium alloy screws and external spacers made of flexible plastic tubing surrounding a nylon-like cord. Once in place in the spine, the dynamic push-pull relationship between the spacer and the cord stabilizes the affected joints, sharing the load and relieving pressure on the nerve.

There are many reasons for surgery.

A major reason to do surgery is vertebral fracture. Not all spine fractures need surgery. However, some fractures such as those associated with spinal cord or nerve injury generally require surgery.  The Spine and Back Center at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago offers the most innovative nonsurgical and surgical treatment options by bringing together the expertise of specialists from different disciplines in one location. Treatment, whether it’s surgical or nonsurgical, is tailored individually to each patient.

Certain types of spinal deformity, such as scoliosis, are also commonly treated with surgery. Scoliosis sometimes appears in children and adolescents. It is an "S" shaped curvature of the spine and surgery is indicated for very large curves or for smaller curves that are getting worse.

Sometimes a hairline fracture allows vertebrae to slip forward on top of each other. This condition is called spondylolisthesis and can be treated by surgery.

Some herniated discs require surgery. With this procedure, the disc is removed through an incision in the front of the neck and a small piece of bone is inserted in place of the disc.

Come to Rush for the right answers.

Rush University Medical Center offers the most innovative treatment options.  Whether your treatment is surgical or non-surgical, you can be assured it is tailored individually for you.