Lumbar interspinous devices: Fusion and motion sparing

Abstract

Lumbar interspinous devices provide effective stabilization for arthrodesis as well as motion preservation. They provide a viable alternative to pedicle screw fixation and can be applied in a minimally invasive fashion. Unlike pedicle screws, they do not risk injury to neural, vascular, or visceral structures. They can be used in conjunction with decompression alone or to support arthrodesis in a wide variety of commonly used constructs. Their use is straightforward as the approach to their application and relevant midline anatomy are well known to all spine surgeons. While controversies related to biomechanics, fusion rates, and clinical outcomes remain, evidence supporting their efficacy is presented.