Photo Source: muenchen-klinik.de
Spondylolysis is a stress fracture or defect in the pars interarticularis, a small segment of bone connecting the upper and lower facet joints of the vertebral arch. This condition commonly affects young athletes and causes chronic lower back pain. The new technique primarily targets children and adolescents who actively participate in gymnastics, track and field, and soccer, populations at highest risk due to repetitive hyperextension and rotational stress on the lumbar spine.
Each implant is fabricated based on CT imaging data and precisely replicates the individual anatomical characteristics of the patient's spine. This personalized approach to surgical planning enables rapid pain relief and facilitates early return to active life. Unlike conventional rigid fixation methods that can limit spinal mobility, this technique preserves motion in the affected spinal segment, a critical consideration for young athletes whose careers depend on maintaining full range of motion.
During the study period, the technology was used to treat 45 patients. According to physicians at the center, clinical outcomes have been impressive:
- Day 1 post-op: Patients are ambulatory within the first 24 hours
- Day 3 post-op: Complete resolution of pain symptoms
- 3 months post-op: Return to full athletic training and competition
Personalized 3D-printed solutions in spinal surgery have been advancing globally over the past 10-15 years, particularly for complex reconstructions following spinal tumor resection and managing severe congenital deformities. This Russian innovation adapts the technology for a specific clinical niche, treatment of spondylolysis, predominantly in the pediatric and adolescent athletic population.
The Priorov Center is at the forefront of implementing several innovative treatment modalities for pediatric and adolescent spinal pathology, including:
- 3D modeling of implants for patients with severe spinal deformities
- Robot-assisted surgical technologies for enhanced precision in spinal procedures
- Dynamic scoliosis correction systems, an alternative to traditional rigid spinal fusion that maintains growth potential and motion
Source: Ministry of Health of Russia