Clinical Symposium II: Interspinous-based Dynamic Stabilization

The mechanism of action in itself has not been fully elucidated, though many theories have been proposed. Validation of these theories becomes important to determining the appropriate indications for use of these devices. Without a clear understanding of the mechanism of action or what these implants really do, their future would remain questionable. The general consensus seems to be that these devices help by unloading the facet joints and thereby have a role to play in treating back pain arising from facet arthrosis. Others have used a spacer device to indirectly decompress the spinal canal in spinal stenosis. The effect on the disc itself is still largely undetermined.