Collierville, Tenn., .Dec. 3, 2007 – Baptist Memorial Hospital-Collierville is offering a new minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of lower back and leg pain caused by lumbar spinal stenosis.

LSS is a narrowing of the lower part of the spinal canal that occurs with aging. As this space in the lower spine shrinks, the nerves passing through the spinal canal can become squeezed, resulting in back, leg, buttocks and groin pain in some patients. This common spinal problem mainly affects people older than 50.

The X-STOP Interspinous Process Decompression procedure involves inserting a titanium spacer implant during back surgery, which offers a less invasive approach and long-term relief from back pain. The implant is designed to limit the extension of the lumbar spine and keep the canal open, relieving pain often caused by standing.

The procedure takes 45 to 90 minutes and can be done under local anesthesia.

“A good candidate for the X-STOP procedure is someone 50 or older whose physical function is moderately impaired and who experiences relief from pain when bending forward,” said Dr. Edward Pratt, an orthopedic surgeon who performs the procedure at Baptist Collierville.

Because the X-STOP procedure requires only a small incision, patients typically are discharged within 24 hours. Most patients need only mild pain relievers for a few days following the surgery.

“These patients walk out of the hospital the same day,” said Pratt. “The more traditional surgery to treat LSS requires the removal of bone and tissue to relieve pressure on nerves, resulting in a recovery time of six to eight weeks.”

LSS is on the rise because of the aging American population. It is the most common cause of back surgery in people older than 50.

“We’re proud to offer this procedure at Baptist Collierville,” said Glenn Baker, hospital administrator and CEO. “We strive to provide our patients access to innovative technologies and treatment options like the X-STOP procedure.”

Baptist Collierville opened its doors in May 1999. With all the amenities of home, this full-service hospital sits on a 75-acre park-like campus and features extra-large patient rooms and a walking trail. Medical services include a full-service emergency room, inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation, inpatient and outpatient surgery, ICU, six-bed step-down unit, inpatient and outpatient diagnostics, the Baptist Sleep Disorders Center and 58 acute care beds.

For more information about Baptist Collierville, please call 901-861-9000 or visit collierville.baptistonline.org. For more information about LSS and the X-STOP procedure, please visit kyphon.com.

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