Our Summary

This research study was conducted to determine whether a synthetic ceramic product called AttraX Putty is as effective as using a patient’s own bone (autograft) in a type of spine surgery called posterolateral fusion (PLF).

The study involved 100 adults who had this type of surgery. Each patient had AttraX Putty applied to one side of the spine and their own bone used on the other side. This allowed each patient to serve as their own control in the study. The success of the fusion was assessed one year after surgery using CT scans.

The results showed that the fusion rate with AttraX Putty was 55%, compared to 52% with the autograft. The overall fusion rate was 71%.

In conclusion, the study supports the use of AttraX Putty as a substitute for a patient’s own bone in this type of spine surgery. The evidence suggests that it is just as effective, if not slightly more so.

FAQs

  1. What is AttraX Putty and how is it used in spinal fusion surgery?
  2. How was the success of the fusion assessed in the study?
  3. What were the fusion rates of AttraX Putty compared to autograft in the study?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing spinal fusion surgery that using a synthetic ceramic product like AttraX Putty can be just as effective as using their own bone for fusion. This can help reduce the need for a second surgery to harvest bone from another part of the body, and may result in a slightly higher fusion rate. It is important for patients to discuss the options with their doctor and weigh the benefits and risks before making a decision.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for spinal fusion surgery include those with spinal instability, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, scoliosis, spondylolisthesis, or spinal fractures. These conditions can cause pain, weakness, numbness, and other symptoms that may not respond to conservative treatments such as medication, physical therapy, or injections. Spinal fusion surgery is often recommended for patients who have not found relief from these conservative treatments and who have significant pain or functional limitations that interfere with their daily activities.

Timeline

Before spinal fusion, a patient typically undergoes a series of diagnostic tests such as X-rays, MRI, and CT scans to determine the extent of the spinal problem. They may also try non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, medication, or injections to alleviate symptoms.

During spinal fusion surgery, the surgeon removes the damaged disc or bone in the spine and fuses the adjacent vertebrae together using bone graft material. This stabilizes the spine and reduces pain caused by movement.

After spinal fusion surgery, the patient will typically stay in the hospital for a few days for monitoring and pain management. They will then begin a rehabilitation program to strengthen the muscles around the spine and regain mobility.

In the months following surgery, the patient will gradually increase their activity level and may continue physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility. It can take several months to a year for the spine to fully heal and for the patient to experience the full benefits of the surgery.

Overall, spinal fusion surgery can be a successful treatment option for certain spinal conditions, but it is important for patients to follow their surgeon’s recommendations for post-operative care and rehabilitation to achieve the best outcomes.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the success rate of spinal fusion using AttraX Putty compared to using my own bone (autograft)?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with using AttraX Putty in spinal fusion surgery?
  3. How long does it typically take for the fusion process to occur with AttraX Putty compared to using my own bone?
  4. Are there any specific factors that may make me a better candidate for using AttraX Putty in spinal fusion surgery?
  5. How does the cost of using AttraX Putty compare to using my own bone in spinal fusion surgery?
  6. What is the recovery process like for patients who undergo spinal fusion using AttraX Putty?
  7. Are there any long-term considerations or implications to be aware of when choosing AttraX Putty for spinal fusion surgery?
  8. How does the use of AttraX Putty impact the overall success and durability of the fusion in the long term?
  9. Are there any alternative options or materials that could be considered for spinal fusion surgery, and how do they compare to AttraX Putty?
  10. What ongoing monitoring or follow-up care is recommended for patients who undergo spinal fusion using AttraX Putty?

Reference

Authors: Lehr AM, Oner FC, Delawi D, Stellato RK, Hoebink EA, Kempen DHR, van Susante JLC, Castelein RM, Kruyt MC; Dutch Clinical Spine Research Group. Journal: Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2020 Jul 15;45(14):944-951. doi: 10.1097/BRS.0000000000003440. PMID: 32080013