Editorial
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World J Clin Cases. Sep 16, 2014; 2(9): 402-408
Published online Sep 16, 2014. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v2.i9.402
Interspinous posterior devices: What is the real surgical indication?
Alessandro Landi
Alessandro Landi, Department of Neurology and Psychiatry, Division of Neurosurgery, University of Rome Sapienza, 00181 Rome, Italy
Author contributions: Landi A solely contributed to this paper.
Correspondence to: Alessandro Landi, MD, PhD, Department of Neurology and Psychiatry, Division of Neurosurgery, University of Rome Sapienza, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00181 Rome, Italy. dott.alessandro.landi@gmail.com
Telephone: +39-06-49979105 Fax: +39-06-49979105
Received: January 10, 2014
Revised: June 17, 2014
Accepted: July 12, 2014
Published online: September 16, 2014
Core Tip

Core tip: If interspinous posterior devices are effectively a miracle cure for lumbar spinal stenosis, why does their use and implantation remain extremely controversial and should they be investigated further? The aim of this editorial is to analyze and underline why these devices have poor outcomes, focusing on a biomechanical point of view, trying to define indications and limits. Is important to underline that these implants must not become a trend but only a weapon in the surgeon’s hands and, as with every weapon, is extremely dangerous in the wrong hands. So the spinal surgeon is the only one who can decide when to use it and must know the effects of this weapon in detail to use it correctly with no damage for the patient.