Newer facet joint replacement systems have yet to receive FDA approval and certainly warrant a second opinion if one is considering entering a trial.
Recently, dynamic-stabilizing systems have become available in the field of spinal technology. One such system the Dynesys dynamic stabilization system, is a new concept in the surgical treatment of lower back and leg pain – one that uses flexible materials to stabilize the spine – and offers another approach to traditional spinal fusion. If your doctor has recommended spinal fusion surgery, a dynamic-stabilization system may be an option as well. This can provide added stability and keep the vertebrae in a more natural position that can be achieved with conventional surgery alone. Chronic lower back and leg pain is usually treated nonsurgically for as long as possible with rest, weight control, exercise, physical therapy, medications and injections. However, when these methods fail to result in pain relief and a return to normal daily activities, a surgical spinal procedure may be recommended. The Dynesys system is a pedicle screw fixation system that offers a unique approach to stabilization and mobilization of the spine and pain relief. It is used as an adjunct to fusion to treat degenerative slipped discs (spondylolisthesis) in the lumbar spine where there is evidence of resulting neurologic impairment or in the case of a previous-failed fusion (pseudoarthrosis). Newer facet joint replacement systems have yet to receive FDA approval and certainly warrant a second opinion if one is considering entering a trial.