TOPS™ Posterior Arthroplasty System
Patients now have an advanced treatment option for debilitating lower back and leg pain with the TOPS™ device. This innovative solution provides an alternative to spinal fusion surgery for individuals suffering from moderate to severe lumbar spinal stenosis, degenerative spondylolisthesis, and related spinal conditions.
The TOPS Posterior Arthroplasty System is designed to address two critical spinal functions: maintaining stability and preserving motion. During a Posterior Arthroplasty procedure, Dr. Richard will remove the bony elements that are compressing your nerves. Following this, the TOPS System is implanted to stabilize the spine and restore a controlled range of motion in the lumbar region.
Patients who experience symptoms such as lower back pain, sciatica, numbness, tingling, burning sensations, and/or radiating leg pain during walking (spinal claudication) often regain their ability to bend, flex, walk, and enjoy daily activities that were previously hindered by their condition. Dr. Richard is one of the few surgeons certified to perform this procedure in Southwest Florida.
What is Tops?
The TOPS™ System is an advanced mechanical implant device designed to replace the bony and soft tissues removed during spinal decompression surgery. This surgery is commonly performed to treat conditions such as lumbar spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal), spondylolisthesis (slipped disc), and facet joint arthrosis or cysts.
Specifically tailored for use at a single spinal level between L2 and L5—the segments most frequently affected by spinal stenosis—the TOPS™ System facilitates motion in all directions: flexion, extension, lateral bending, and axial rotation. Additionally, it effectively blocks harmful shear forces that naturally impact the lower spine, a feature particularly advantageous for patients with spondylolisthesis or a slipped disc.
Unlike decompression-only procedures or other intraspinous or intralaminar devices, the TOPS™ System offers a comprehensive solution that provides both immediate and long-lasting pain relief. Clinically proven to enhance quality of life, it has consistently shown excellent outcomes for patients meeting the criteria. Dr. Richard is experienced in using the TOPS™ System to achieve optimal results for suitable patients.
TOPS Benefits
The TOPS™ System offers three key benefits in treating spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, and other facet joint disorders:
Stabilization and Motion Restoration: The system stabilizes the lumbar spine while allowing for a controlled range of motion. This helps restore flexibility and function to the affected spinal segment.
Enhanced Mobility: Patients regain their ability to bend, flex, walk, and engage in everyday activities, improving their overall quality of life.
Immediate and Sustained Pain Relief: The TOPS™ System provides both immediate and long-lasting pain relief. Clinical studies since 2005 have shown its effectiveness in alleviating persistent leg and lower back pain associated with moderate to severe spinal stenosis, with or without spondylolisthesis (a slipped disc), and facet arthrosis (bone spurs).
If you are experiencing symptoms of spinal stenosis, consult Dr. Richard (link to schedule a consultation) to explore all treatment options and determine if the TOPS™ System is the right solution for you.
For more information, you can also learn about the TOPS™ System from its manufacturer, Premia Spine. (have Premia Spine linked to https://premiaspine.com/ )