The Lumbar Spine
The lumbar (lower) spine consists of 5 bones called Vertebrae. The vertebrae are stacked on top of one another, separated by a gel-like cushion called
a Disc. Vertebrae are linked together by small Facet Joints, which provide stability to the spine, while also enabling the spine to naturally bend and twist. The lumbar spine forms a protective path for the Spinal Cord, which transmits nerve signals throughout the body.

Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
Like other joints in the body, such as the knees or hips, facet joints can become inflamed and arthritic over time due to normal “wear and tear.” As facet joints wear down, bone spurs can build up, which narrows the space for spinal nerves to pass. This narrowing of space is known as Lumbar Spinal Stenosis. Patients with Lumbar Spinal Stenosis may feel pain, weakness, or numbness in their lower back and legs due to pinching or squeezing of spinal nerves. Lumbar Spinal Stenosis is a degenerative condition, with symptoms worsening over time.

Current Treatment
Surgical Decompression with Spinal Fusion
One of the most common surgical procedures for treating Lumbar Spinal Stenosis is called Surgical Decompression. This procedure involves trimming or removing bone, including the facet joints, to relieve nerve pressure and pain. However, since facet joints help keep the spine stable, removing them can lead to spine instability. To compensate for this, surgeons often use spinal instrumentation to “fuse” together adjacent vertebrae and help stabilize the spine following decompression. This process is known as Spinal Fusion. Although spinal fusion helps keep the spine stable following decompression, it also eliminates natural motion between vertebrae.

A New Treatment Alternative
Surgical Decompression with Facet Replacement
Spine doctors are evaluating a new approach to treating Lumbar Spinal Stenosis. In this procedure, a standard Surgical Decompression is performed to relieve nerve pressure and pain. However, instead of fusing the spine following decompression, the surgeon replaces the facet joints with an anatomically designed implant (Facet Replacement). This implant, called the ACADIA™ Facet Replacement System (AFRS), is designed to restore the range of motion provided by the facet joints.

ACADIA™ Facet Replacement System Potential Benefits:
• Elimination of low back and leg pain.
• Restoration of motion, balance, and stability to the lower spine.