Fox Valley Orthopedics (FVO) announced Spine Surgeon Lauren E. Matteini, MD, is the first to perform an Anterior to Psoas (ATP) fusion of the lumbar spine in an ambulatory surgery center in the state of Illinois. This minimally invasive procedure stabilizes the spine to help correct abnormal movement.
The Anterior to Psoas approach is the latest surgical technique used to help patients with spondylolisthesis, or degenerative disc disease. While not uncommon, it is a complicated procedure where a surgeon removes the damaged disc and inserts an interbody cage between the vertebrae that is filled with a synthetic bone graft. The anterior incision limits muscle dissection, thereby reducing pain and recovery time.
“The patient had years of lower back and leg pain, and needed relief,” said Dr. Matteini. “He traveled here from Wisconsin, and was encouraged by the outpatient surgical option in an ASC…and was able to recover in the comfort of his son’s home following surgery. When he came in for his follow-up visit the next day, he had no pain and was only taking over-the-counter pain relief since his surgery the previous day.”
Traditional spinal fusion surgery usually requires a hospital stay, but ASCs have become viable alternatives with surgical advancements. FVO’s Ambulatory Surgery Center is customized with orthopedic surgical equipment, and fully staffed with a team uniquely trained in orthopedics. It is state-licensed and accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care, and costs considerably less than a hospital.
“Once the patient completes physical therapy,” said Dr. Matteini, “I expect he will be able to walk, run and enjoy life again, pain-free.”
