Dr. J. Alex Sielatycki is currently involved in the clinical trial and FDA approval process  of a new total joint replacement surgery of the lumbar spine segment using the breakthrough Balanced Back MOTUS lumbar device, developed by 3Spine, as is an alternative to spinal fusion surgery. By maintaining or restoring motion of the lumbar discs it will relieve pain and minimize collateral damage to adjacent spine segments. The new 3Spine device is now moving toward FDA approval which should be complete within the next two years,

Although disc replacements are common in the upper or cervical spine, due to the complex anatomy and the difficulty in working around nerves, joint replacements are not yet as common in the lower or lumbar spine. These motion segments of the spine are among the last joints in the body still being fused by many surgeons around the world.

“We now have a better understanding of the importance of maintaining motion between the lower lumbar spine, pelvis, and hip joints, as these are the core of the body’s ability to move fluidly – not just in athletic activities like running, skiing, and biking, but in day to day living with standing, sitting, twisting and bending.

We have known for decades that lumbar spinal fusion surgery can have substantial negative downstream effects on spinal motion and overall spinal health, but truly effective alternatives to fusion have been elusive. With this lumbar total joint replacement technology, I believe we have an answer to this decades-long problem which has plagued so many patients,” - Dr. J. Alex Sielatycki