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Spine Case Report Library
The Orthofix technology case presentations demonstrate spinal fusion in patients at risk for non-union. Orthofix Spinal Fusion Stimulators generate a Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) signal that stimulates bone cell growth at the molecular, cellular and tissue levels creating an environment more conducive to bone healing in patients at risk for a failed spinal fusion.
Multi-level Cervical Fusion with Significant Risk of Pseudoarthrosis
Presented by: Alexios Apazidis, MD, MBA
Orthopaedic Spine and Scoliosis Surgeon
Long Island Orthopaedic and Spine Specialists
Dr. Apazidis’ patient is a 52-year-old female executive presenting with multiple risk factors for pseudarthrosis: Vitamin D deficiency, tobacco habit and NSAID use. Her neck pain and radiculopathy is progressively worsening limiting her functional abilities during computer work, regular exercise and leisure activities.
High Risk Multi-level Cervical Fusion
Presented by: Todd McCall, MD
Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery
University of Illinois, College of Medicine
Six years previous to consulting with Dr. McCall, the patient—a 65-year-old long-term smoker—underwent ACDF at C6-C7 which had failed to achieve solid arthrodesis. She presented with chronic severe neck pain (up to 10/10).
Her risk factors going into the multi-level fusion: obesity, smoking, advanced age, and failed single-level fusion. With a combined strategy incorporating proper surgical technique, and bone growth stimulation, a solid arthrodesis formed at all 4 levels within one year.
Recurrent Spondylolisthesis with Significant Risk of Pseudarthrosis
Presented by: Jon Krumerman, MD
Neurosurgeon
Dallas Neurosurgical & Spine
This case presentation highlights a healthy, active woman who underwent uncomplicated surgery. Her risk factors of spondylolisthesis and osteopenia were compounded by a post-operative fall, which placed her at risk for pseudarthrosis.
Despite loss of spondylolisthesis correction and significant risk of eventual pseudarthrosis, the patient's fusion construct was salvaged by use of an external bone stimulator, and lumbar brace.
Statement of Indications
Spinal-Stim is a non-invasive electromagnetic bone growth stimulator indicated as an adjunct therapy to increase the probability of fusion success and as a non-operative treatment of salvage of failed spinal fusion, where a minimum of nine months has elapsed since the last surgery.
Cervical-Stim is a non-invasive, pulsed electromagnetic bone growth stimulator indicated as an adjunct therapy to cervical fusion surgery in patients at high-risk for non-union.
