Doc bets on DIAM for lumbar disc degeneration

Hyderabad, May 16 (UNI) Patients suffering from Cervical Degenerative Disc Disease can now undergo a new procedure--Device for Intervertebral Assisted Motion(DIAM)-- designed to preserve motion and flexibility of patients, a specialist claimed.

Dr G P V Subbaiah, a Consultant Ortho Spine Surgeon with Global Hospital told reporters here today that the procedure opened up a new area of treatment for patients who suffered from the disease of spinal cord conventionally treated with pain killers and removal of degnerated disc and fusion of adjacent disc at the level.

''The DIAM system is designed for patients who have degenerative stenosis and who suffer prodominantly from radiating leg discomfort and moderate low back pain,'' he said adding ''the silicon implant is to be placed between the visible ridges of the back and is designed to act as a shock observer that reduces loads on surrounding vertebrae.'' Degenerative stenosis is a common condition in the aging process, marked by gradula narrowing of the spinal canal resulting in pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots.

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