D-Trax® System: Minimally Invasive Cervical Spine Surgery

The D-Trax® System is a minimally invasive posterior cervical fixation system consisting of two wedge-shaped titanium devices that are implanted in the contact surface of the posterior facet joints (2 of the 3 points of support between two consecutive vertebrae). The implants have an approximate size of 10x6x3 mm and their placement is performed by means of small skin incisions (approximately 1 cm) which facilitate the introduction of cannulas through which the devices to be inserted pass percutaneously. The approximate implantation time is 30-45 minutes per level.

How does D-Trax® work?

Dr. Cardiel Grimal, neurosurgeon specializing in minimally invasive spine surgery at Neuroadvance, explains that once the implants are inserted between the diseased articular surfaces, they immediately block their movement and promote bone fusion in the long term. Consequently, the joint movement that causes pain is prevented.

Another effect of the D-Trax system is that, by distancing the two articular surfaces as a result of the introduction of the wedge, it is possible to increase the height of the orifices (conjunctival foramina) through which the spinal nerves emerge, which receive the sensory stimuli from the arm and which, in turn, are responsible for the motor responses or movements of a specific part of the limb. In this way, we free the nerve, improving its functionality and eliminating the pain caused by compression.

Considering the mechanism of action of the system, D-Trax is indicated for:

  • Pain in one or both arms due to cervical nerve root impingement secondary to narrowing of the spinal outlets (conjunctival foramina).
  • Cervical pain where conservative treatments have failed.
  • Cervical pain where surgical techniques that approach the vertebrae anteriorly have failed.
  • As a complement to spinal decompression techniques to prevent movements that could aggravate the existing neurological lesion. In this case, the system would be implanted openly.
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What are the benefits compared to open cervical surgery?

Compared to open techniques, the D-Trax system allows a joint block or nerve decompression similar in terms of effectiveness but with little damage to the cervical bone, ligamentous and muscular tissue. Consequently, it allows a shorter surgical time, less bleeding, a lower rate of complications and less post-procedural pain. All this leads to a minimum hospital stay (approximately 12 hours) with a faster recovery of daily activities.