Accuflex system included a dynamic rod and 6.5-mm pedicle screws made of titanium alloy. The rod has double helical cuts that create flexibility, transforming a rigid rod into a dynamic one allowing motion primarily in the flexion–extension mode. The amount of flexibility depends on the number of circumferential cuts made within the specified length of the rod: the more spiral cuts there are, the more flexible the rod is. The technique for Accuflex implantation is nearly identical to that used for the standard pedicle screw/rod construct, although a more precise positioning of the rod between the pedicle screws is needed. The ACCUFLEX Rod System is no longer available
About Pedicle Screw/Rod–Based Dynamic Stabilization Devices
Dynamic stabilization is a surgical technique designed to allow for some movement of the spine, while maintaining enough stability to prevent too much movement. Pedicle-based dynamic devices were first designed to stabilize the abnormal segment and to unload degenerated discs and facet joints, while maintaining the same level of normal motion.By unloading the pressure on the degenerated disc and facets, pedicle-based dynamic devices have the potential to reduce pain associated with these anatomical structures. Furthermore, these devices can be used to prevent adjacent-segment disease, either by replacing the whole construct with dynamic rods or by “topping off” the rigid instrumented segment with pedicle-based dynamic devices, avoiding an abrupt change from a rigid construct to the more mobile adjacent segment. It has also been argued that using pedicle-based dynamic devices can promote better fusion because of micromovements across endplates, and can protect from implant failure because of better load sharing through the implant. Finally, these devices can be used to stabilize posterior iatrogenic destabilizing surgery, such as wide laminectomy and facetectomy.
About Globus Medical
Globus Medical, Inc. is a leading spinal implant manufacturer and is driving significant technological advancements across a complete suite of spinal products. Founded in 2003, Globus’ single-minded focus on advancing spinal surgery has made it the fastest growing company in the history of orthopedics. Globus is driven to utilize superior engineering and technology to achieve pain free, active lives for all patients with spinal disorders. http://www.globusmedical.com