Dynamic stabilisation with Medtronic DIAM flexible implant

Instead of stiffening part of the spine, a flexible, deformable DIAM implant (Device for Intervertebral Assisted Motion) is used. This implant takes over some of the loads that run through the spine’s movement segment while maintaining the natural mobility of its individual elements. Relieving the so-called the posterior column of the spine reduces the pressure on the spinal roots, articular processes and the rear part of the shaft, resulting in the correct alignment of the articular processes, restoration of the correct ligament tension, expansion of the pathologically narrowed intervertebral space and stabilization of a given section of the spine.

A very important feature of dynamic stabilization is the lack of stress accumulation in the segments in the immediate vicinity of the stabilized area, which occurs during spine stiffening procedures. Correctly performed by a surgeon with extensive experience in this operation, it widens the intervertebral foramen, i.e. the bone root canal, in which, in cases of stenosis of this canal, the nerve root is compressed and causes pain symptoms similar to those of a disc herniation.

Dynamic lumbar posterior interspine stabilization with the use of an elastic stabilizer – that is dynamic (and the only such implant in the world that meets the conditions for flexibility is the DIAM implant) is, due to its relatively low invasiveness, a method that meets the conditions of MAST (Minimal Access Spine Technique). During implantation, it is not necessary to penetrate the epiphyses and arches of the vertebrae, the body or the spinal canal. There is also no direct contact of the tools or the implant with the neural structures, which means that the risk of failure associated with additional neurological deficits is minimal with a properly performed operation. The ligamentous-muscular anatomy of the posterior column of the spine is also preserved.

Before surgery, it is necessary to have a consultation with a neurosurgeon performing the procedure – dr hab. Stanisław Kwiek. To qualify for the procedure, a current MRI or CT scan result is required – the result cannot be older than 6 months. The test results should be with you during the consultation on the CD – the test description alone is not sufficient.

Magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography is also available as a private service at OMEGA diagnostic imaging, which receives patients in the same building as KCM Clinic.

The patient must perform tests in accordance with the recommendations of the neurosurgeon after medical consultation prior to the procedure. Anesthesiological consultation, performed on the day of admission to the hospital ward, is also necessary. Prepare for a two-day stay in the hospital ward at KCM Clinic. Before the procedure, the patient reports to the Registration with full documentation and the results of imaging and laboratory tests.

It should also be remembered that patients after surgery cannot drive a car. The patient should take care of an accompanying person who will help ensure a safe return home.

Specialised physiotherapy and rehabilitation are very important after neurosurgery. It is absolutely necessary to follow the instructions of the doctor and medical staff. Correct physiotherapy is managed by Krzysztof Suszyński, MD, physiotherapy specialist, both before and after our minimally invasive endoscopic procedures.

Persons struggling with comorbidities or other health problems must inform their physician during the first qualification consultation. Before the procedure, all tests should be carried out as prescribed by the doctor and all recommendations before and after the procedure should be followed.