Comparing Coflex and Fusion Patient in Los Angeles, CA

The Coflex stabilization device is a specially designed implant meant to negate the need for fusion following decompression surgery to stabilize the spine. A recent Food and Drug Administration study found that patients receiving the Coflex device had better results than fusion patients, adding to the growing lists of benefits associated with use of the device.

A Strong Performance Across the Board

The FDA’s clinical study looked at all standard factors typically used to determine how successful surgery is for a patient. Participants who had the Coflex device implanted reported better results across the board compared to what was reported by those who had decompression surgery followed by a fusion. Coflex patients reported:

  • More satisfaction with their outcome
  • Faster relief of their pain symptoms
  • Sustained relief from previous symptoms

More Efficient Surgery Results

The FDA study also looked at factors specific to the procedure itself compared to what’s typically experienced with patients who have fusion surgery. Operating time alone was 36 percent faster for Coflex patients at 98 minutes compared to 153 minutes. While hospital stays were shorter by a day for Coflex patients, a more significant difference was observed with the procedure itself, with implant recipients experiencing less blood loss.

Improved Patient Functioning

Coflex patients enjoyed more natural movement than fusion patients. After 2 years, device recipients also reported maintaining preoperative range of motion in the treatment area.

A Cost Effective Solution

The study is unique in that it’s the first time an alternative to fusion surgery has proven to be both successful for many patients while also keeping costs in check. Previous research on the cost-effectiveness of the device noted a total savings of nearly $12,000 over a five-year period; partly attributed to reduced instances of revision surgeries.

Not everyone with spinal stenosis is an ideal candidate for the Coflex device. Patients must be diagnosed with moderate to severe spinal stenosis and have tried non-surgical treatments for 6-8 months without success. While there is no age restriction that’s set in stone, most patients given the okay to have the device implanted have ranged in age from 40 to 85.

For more information, reach out to leading Los Angeles spine surgery center, The Spine Institute. Our experienced team of diagnosticians and physicians and diagnose the source of your pain and discuss all possible options for pain relief. Call (310) 828-7757 today and schedule your in-person consultation.