Spinal Spacers: A Modern Solution for Spinal Stenosis
Spinal spacers are a safe, minimally invasive treatment option designed to help patients with lumbar spinal stenosis—a condition where the spaces in the spine become narrow and compress the nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness in the lower back and legs.
Spacers are small implants placed between two vertebrae in your lower back. It’s designed to hold these bones in a slightly separated position, relieving pressure on the spinal nerves. This helps reduce pain and improve mobility, letting you get back to the activities you love.
Spacers are implanted through a small incision, meaning less pain and quicker recovery compared to traditional open-back surgery. There are no screws or invasive hardware. The spacers use a secure locking mechanism, eliminating the need for screws or rods.
Spinal spacers are a great option for individuals seeking relief from certain types of spinal stenosis without going through major surgery. If you would like to explore which treatment is right for you, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We’re here to help you find relief and get back to doing what you love!
What to Expect
Spinal spacer placement is an outpatient procedure done in the surgery center. Patients go home the same day. The procedure is done with local anesthesia and sedation to help you relax.
Through a small incision, the spacer is carefully positioned between the affected vertebrae using advanced imaging for precision. As it’s minimally invasive, patients can go home the same day and experience reduced post-operative discomfort.
Most patients experience relief soon after the procedure and return to their usual activities within weeks.
Instructions Before the Procedure
1. If you take blood thinners, we will provide detailed instructions on when to stop and restart them.
2. Please let us know if there are any changes to your health, such as a new pregnancy, or if you start antibiotics before your procedure.
3. Since this procedure is done with sedation in a surgery center, plan for a friend or family member to drive you home afterward. They are welcome to wait in the waiting area during your procedure, or you can call them when you are ready to leave.
4. We’ll provide additional instructions based on the surgery center where your procedure is scheduled.
Instructions After the Procedure
Rest and Activity:
- Plan to take it easy for the first 24–48 hours following the procedure.
- Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous physical activities for at least a week.
- Gradually return to your normal daily activities as you feel comfortable.
- Light walking or gentle movements are encouraged to prevent stiffness.
- Avoid operating heavy or potentially dangerous equipment on the day of your procedure.
- Plan to avoid driving for the rest of the day of the procedure.
Alcohol: If you received sedation, please skip alcohol for the rest of the day.
Dressings: We will provide instructions on when you may remove any dressings. Do not remove them on your own.
Blood Thinners: You can restart your blood thinners the day after your procedure unless we have advised you otherwise.
Comfort at the Procedure Site: It’s normal to feel some mild discomfort at the procedure site. Applying ice can help ease the soreness—just remember to wrap the ice in a cloth and avoid placing it directly on your skin. Refrain from using heat on the procedure site on the day of your procedure.
Additional Instructions: Follow up appointments and any other specific instructions will be provided the day of the procedure.
Are spinal spacers covered by my insurance plan?
Yes, Medicare and the Medicare Advantage plans cover spinal spacers, as do most commercial insurance plans. Prior authorization is required by most plans.