In the last few years a new procedure for lower back pain and degenerative spondylolisthesis has become increasingly popular.

The Interspinous Process Decompression (IPD®) System ("X-STOP") is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that places an implant between the spinous processes of the symptomatic disc levels. The procedure is an alternative to the more traditional invasive laminectomy, which removes the bone parts that are narrowing the spinal canal and squeezing the spinal cord and nerve roots.

Designed to remain safely and permanently in place, the X-STOP wedge keeps the space between the patient's spinous processes open and provides rapid relief and improved physical function.

The device can be surgically implanted in a minimally invasive procedure that is typically performed with local anesthesia in less than an hour. As it is not fixed to any bony structures, the X-STOP procedure does not result in fusion and is completely reversible without compromising any therapeutic alternatives, including laminectomy.

Click here to see a Sutter Health Presents Your Health video about the X-Stop procedure.

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