Dr. Timothy K. Durnin - 12/2/2007

Question
Hello! I have a question regarding the lumbar Flexible Fusion/Dynamic Fixation/Dynesys w/ Fusion procedure. I guess I really AM asking -- What makes a Flexible Fusion flexible??? I understand the rods are not stiff- that they are flexible and can 'bounce.' I understand that this allows for almost normal mobility & prevents adjacent-level damage as in the 'original' fusion.

However, I don't understand how it STAYS flexible after the bones fuse. Where do the bones fuse - underneath/right around the rods? Once the bones fuse - since they are rigid and stiff - doesn't that keep the rods from doing their 'bouncing thing?' How does it STAY flexible after the bones fuse?

Thank you so much!!

Answer
Hi Rpiece,

Everything is relative, to say it remains flexible is a misleading marketing tool. Scar tissue proliferation is the main reason it becomes rigid. Either way, having any kind of Low back or neck surgery results in some degree of permanent disability and loss of range of motion. These procedures should be avoided at all costs since viable decompression techniques such as flexion/distraction are proven exponentially more effective and safer.

http://www.coxtechnic.com/homepage.asp

Good luck!

Dr. Timothy Durnin