L5-S1 Questions

[ans]

Hi.

1. Is the newer thinking that fusion is a better option at this level than an ADR?

2. Do any particular ADR's offer rigid support at this level and hence are more optimal vs. fusion?

3. Does fusion or an ADR at this level increase the chances of lower level problems? (I'm thinking of the cauda equina risk).

Thanks - Allan

[letteski]

Allen,

Re: trends in ADR/fusion I can only speak from my experience with my case. I saw 9 doctors in the last 8 months. 3 recommended fusion at L5-S1 and 6 recommended ADR. 2 of these doctors were not trained in ADR but one of them left the room and came back in and handed me the Charite color brochure and said I was a candidate. The other said if I waned ADR I should go to LA.

Take a look at the Average Motion Extension Flexion in the Delamarter ProDisc Study I sent you. I personally would rather have 2 degrees or less of movement then 0. But this is my choice and I am willing to take the risk of ADR over fusion. Good luck with your decision.

[cervie queen]

I think it depends on the conditions at that level for each individual.

[mmglobal]

IMHO

1. no

2. ADR is to preserve motion and restore kinematics... not to provide rigid support.

3. no

[ans]

Thanks all for your input.

For some reason I thought that the L5-S1 area required flexibliity but perhaps some ADR's offered too much flexibility - hence, fusion was an option.

Allan