What is Vertiflex Superion?

Vertiflex Superion is a small, FDA-approved spacer that helps treat chronic pain associated with lumbar spinal stenosis with neurogenic claudication. Made from 100% titanium, the interspinous spacer is implanted between the spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae to widen the spinal canal and neuroforamen. With a Vertiflex Superion implant in place, patients suffering from lumbar spinal stenosis can improve function and relieve pain.

The Vertiflex Superion procedure is minimally-invasive and requires minimal downtime.

What Does a Vertiflex Procedure Treat?

Vertiflex is primarily used to treat patients with lumbar spinal stenosis with neurogenic claudication. Patients with these pain conditions may exhibit symptoms, such as:

  • Back pain
  • Sharp leg pain
  • Leg cramps
  • Numbness in the lower body

A Vertiflex procedure can help relieve these symptoms. If you’re experiencing these spinal stenosis symptoms or similar chronic pain in your lower body, Vertiflex may be a treatment option for you.

Contact Greater Austin Pain Center to schedule an appointment and learn more about this procedure.

What to Expect During a Vertiflex Procedure

If your chronic pain has not responded to traditional approaches, such as epidural injections or physical therapy, our Austin pain doctors may deem you a good candidate for a Vertiflex implant. During a Vertiflex procedure, patients will receive a local anesthetic to anesthetize the affected area. The doctor will then make a small incision, use a live x-ray to insert the Vertiflex Superion implant, and adjust its wings so it slowly spreads the vertebrae apart. Once the implant is secured in place, the incision is closed with surgical glue or a small stitch. The entire Vertiflex procedure typically takes 20 to 30 minutes.

After a Vertiflex procedure, patients can often expect to enjoy a significant reduction in pain almost immediately. While healing time varies, patients should avoid rigorous physical activity for about 6 weeks and engage only in light to moderate activity during that time. The Vertiflex procedure should provide chronic pain relief for about two years. At that point, or once it wears down, the Vertiflex implant can be replaced during another minimally-invasive procedure.

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The Vertiflex Superion Process

1

Schedule an Appointment

Contact Greater Austin Pain Center to schedule an appointment at one of our three pain management centers in Austin, Kyle, Dripping Springs, and San Marcos.

2

Initial Evaluation

During an initial consultation, our pain doctors will take the time to learn about your history with chronic pain and previous attempts to treat it. During this evaluation, we’ll determine if Vertiflex is the ideal treatment option for you.

3

Receive the Vertiflex Implant

Patients will receive a local anesthetic to anesthetize the treatment area. The doctor will create a small incision, use a live x-ray to guide the Vertiflex implant in between the vertebrae, then close the incision with a small suture.

3

Recovery

While patients can return to their normal routine, a few days after their procedures, rigorous physical activity should be avoided for about 6 weeks. During that time, patients are encouraged to participate in light activities, such as walking.

Testimonials

"Dr. Jarzembeck is AMAZING. I HIGHLY recommend her for anyone suffering in pain. She goes above and beyond to make sure her patients pain has been dealt with."

Genia G.

"Everyone is so friendly and helpful, Dr. Bednar came to me and explained the procedure and answered my questions. Highly recommend!"

Maggie G.

"Dr. Julia is the best! The staff is professional and friendly to all. Best of all, Dr. Julia is finding solutions for my chronic pain! Never thought that it would be possible. It's a journey for me, but it seems like there is a solution."

Nancy M.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Vertiflex safe?

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Yes, the Vertiflex Superion implant is FDA-approved to help treat moderate lumbar spinal stenosis.

Is Vertiflex efficient at treating pain?

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The Vertiflex procedure is an efficient treatment method for lumbar spinal stenosis. According to a five year study, 66% of patients saw an improvement in back pain, 75% saw an improvement in leg pain, and 90% of patients were satisfied with their Vertiflex procedure.

How long does a Vertiflex procedure take?

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The entire Vertiflex procedure can be completed in 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the number of implants that are being inserted. Two implants can be inserted during a single procedure.

What are the side effects of Vertiflex?

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Vertiflex side effects are minimal and can include mild pain or discomfort from the procedure.

Is Vertiflex covered by insurance?

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At Greater Austin Pain Center, we accept most insurance plans. To learn more about whether the Vertiflex procedure is covered by your insurance plan, contact us for more information.

How long does Vertiflex last?

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The Vertiflex Superion device has been proven to last up to 2 years. Once worn down, the implant can be replaced with a minimally invasive procedure.

Lunch & Learn With Our Doctors

Curious about interventive pain treatments in Austin, TX? Join our doctors for an in-person lunch and learn session to find out more about these treatments and ask any questions you may have. This event will be 12–1pm, sign up below to receive more details and RSVP.

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Treat Chronic Pain with a Vertiflex Implant

If you suffer from mild-to-moderate spinal stenosis, contact Greater Austin Pain Center to learn more about the Vertiflex Superion procedure. With four convenient locations in Austin, Kyle, Dripping Springs, and San Marcos, our pain management doctors are ready and eager to help you find a solution for your chronic pain.

Schedule an Appointment

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