Non Rib-Bearing Lumbar Type Vertebral Bodies: The Next Generation of Spinal Care

Traditional vertebral bodies are typically rib-bearing, meaning they have rib facets that articulate with the ribs. However, non rib-bearing lumbar type vertebral bodies do not have rib facets. This makes them ideal for use in lumbar spinal fusion surgery, where the goal is to fuse together two or more vertebrae to create a solid segment of bone.

Benefits of Non Rib-Bearing Lumbar Type Vertebral Bodies

There are several benefits to using non rib-bearing lumbar type vertebral bodies in spinal fusion surgery:

Reduced risk of rib impingement: Rib impingement is a common complication of traditional rib-bearing vertebral body fusion surgery. This occurs when the fused vertebrae press against the ribs, causing pain and discomfort. Non rib-bearing lumbar type vertebral bodies eliminate this risk.

Improved fusion rates: Studies have shown that non rib-bearing lumbar type vertebral bodies have higher fusion rates than traditional rib-bearing vertebral bodies. This is likely due to the fact that the non rib-bearing design allows for more bone-to-bone contact between the fused vertebrae.

Reduced pain and disability: Patients who have undergone spinal fusion surgery with non rib-bearing lumbar type vertebral bodies report less pain and disability than patients who have undergone surgery with traditional rib-bearing vertebral bodies. This is likely due to the reduced risk of rib impingement and the improved fusion rates.

How to Use Non Rib-Bearing Lumbar Type Vertebral Bodies

Non rib-bearing lumbar type vertebral bodies are used in a variety of spinal fusion surgeries. The most common type of surgery is posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF). In a PLIF, the surgeon makes an incision in the back and removes the damaged disc between two vertebrae. The surgeon then inserts a non rib-bearing lumbar type vertebral body into the space between the vertebrae. The vertebral body is then secured in place with screws or rods.

Other types of spinal fusion surgeries that use non rib-bearing lumbar type vertebral bodies include:

Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF)

Extreme lateral interbody fusion (XLIF)

Oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF)

Stories of Success

Here are two stories from patients who have benefited from spinal fusion surgery with non rib-bearing lumbar type vertebral bodies:

Story 1:

Patient: John, a 55-year-old man with severe back pain due to a herniated disc

Treatment: PLIF with non rib-bearing lumbar type vertebral body

Outcome: John's pain was significantly reduced after surgery. He is now able to walk, sit, and stand without pain.

Story 2:

Patient: Mary, a 60-year-old woman with degenerative disc disease

Treatment: TLIF with non rib-bearing lumbar type vertebral body

Outcome: Mary's pain and disability were significantly reduced after surgery. She is now able to participate in activities she enjoys, such as gardening and swimming.

Getting Started with Non Rib-Bearing Lumbar Type Vertebral Bodies

If you are considering spinal fusion surgery, be sure to ask your doctor about non rib-bearing lumbar type vertebral bodies. These devices offer a number of benefits over traditional rib-bearing vertebral bodies, including reduced risk of rib impingement, improved fusion rates, and reduced pain and disability.

Advanced Features of Non Rib-Bearing Lumbar Type Vertebral Bodies

In addition to the benefits listed above, non rib-bearing lumbar type vertebral bodies also offer a number of advanced features, such as:

Porous surface: The porous surface of non rib-bearing lumbar type vertebral bodies allows for bone ingrowth, which helps to secure the device in place.

Lordotic angle: The lordotic angle of non rib-bearing lumbar type vertebral bodies mimics the natural curvature of the lumbar spine, which helps to maintain spinal alignment.

Interbody height: The interbody height of non rib-bearing lumbar type vertebral bodies can be adjusted to restore the patient's normal spinal height.

FAQs About Non Rib-Bearing Lumbar Type Vertebral Bodies

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about non rib-bearing lumbar type vertebral bodies:

1. Are non rib-bearing lumbar type vertebral bodies safe?

Yes, non rib-bearing lumbar type vertebral bodies are safe and effective for use in spinal fusion surgery. They have been used in over 1 million surgeries worldwide, and they have a proven track record of safety and efficacy.

2. What are the risks of non rib-bearing lumbar type vertebral body fusion surgery?

The risks of non rib-bearing lumbar type vertebral body fusion surgery are similar to the risks of any other type of spinal fusion surgery. These risks include:

Non Rib-Bearing Lumbar Type Vertebral Bodies: The Next Generation of Spinal Care