Vertebropexy—Spinal Stabilization with a Tendon Allograft

To overcome the frequent post-operative complications associated with rigid spinal fixation through spondylodesis surgery, alternative spinal stabilization methods have been developed in recent decades but so far it has not been possible to establish a technique as a relevant alternative to rigid fixation with metal implants. In 2021, tendon allgraft was used at Balgrist University Hospital for the treatment of dropped head syndrome to avoid metal-based cervical fusion surgery by reinforcing the posterior ligaments. The implanted tendons kept their mechanical properties over time which suggested that a similar approach could also be successfully used for semi-rigid stabilization in the lumbar spine region.

Subsequent biomechanical experiments aimed at finding an optimal technique for range-of-motion restriction, especially by limiting flexion and improving shear stability through facet joint engagement. The most encouraging in vitro results were obtained using a technique in which the tendon allograft is looped twice around the processi spinosi (Fig. 1). So far, the pain and functional outcome measures of patients treated with this so-called ”vertebropexy” technique look very promising. The start-up Moving Spine AG was founded in mid-2023 to direct the appropriate amount of resources into research, development, and eventual distribution of the ”vertebropexy” technique and the related instruments.