Aurora ZIP Lumbar Fusion Treatment
In Maryland, Pennsylvania, Florida and Virginia
Aurora ZIP is a minimally invasive procedure that effectively treats back and leg pain from spinal instability. If nonsurgical treatment options have proved ineffective at managing your pain, Aurora ZIP can help improve your pain symptoms without undergoing major back surgery.
Digital Guide
Treatment overview and more!
The Aurora ZIP Procedure
The Aurora ZIP procedure is a minimally invasive spine surgery for chronic spine-related pain. Because this approach is minimally invasive, it often produces faster recovery times, reduced postoperative pain, and a lower risk of complications compared to traditional spinal fusion surgery.
A recent study found that the Aurora ZIP procedure resulted in significant pain relief for patients suffering from moderate to severe lumbar spinal stenosis and degenerative disc disease. According to the National Institutes of Health, patients in the study reported a 67% reduction in pain after the procedure.
Use our resource buttons below to learn more about the Aurora ZIP procedure, including information on procedure candidates, recovery tips, and answers to frequently asked questions. If you're ready to speak with one of our pain specialists, please use our contact form or call us today to schedule your new patient consultation.
What Patients Are Saying
Great office, good people. Been there quite a few years. Never a problem. Leave them a message, they always respond. I've had six back surgeries 2knees and right shoulder. Gregg keeps my chronic debilitating pain managed well so I can still live my life best I can. Im so grateful.
Jenny Martins / google review
Dr. Rao. I can't find the words to tell you how much he has meant to me. I followed him from an old practice to his very new high tech office. They offer so many different areas of assistance to those with issues from nutrition to spinal surgery... and much more. His office is professional.
Mom To2 / vitals
Dr. Rao is such an amazing doctor! During my first visit, he never tried to rush through my appt.; he genuinely listened to all my concerns and then took his time to explain to me in detail all his recommendations and how they would help me.
Nikki / healthgrades
Aurora Zip Treatment Guide
Treatment Guide
Our board-certified back pain specialist doctors specialize in minimally invasive treatments like the Aurora Zip. Download our guide to learn more about our comprehensive services focussed on pain management for chronic pain.
More Resources
Access to our Aurora Zip guide, pain quiz, FAQ's, and patient reviews.
We Accept All Insurances
Individualized Patient Care
Board Certified Doctors
Seen Within Two Weeks
What is the Aurora ZIP Procedure?
The Aurora ZIP procedure is a safe and effective way to treat spine problems caused by spinal instability. Spinal or lumbar instability occurs when the spine experiences an excessive range of motion between two vertebrae. This abnormal, heightened motion between these two backbones can create various lower back problems and result in intense pain and discomfort.
The procedure is a minimally invasive lumbar fusion treatment that uses a unique implant system to stabilize the spine without sacrificing mobility. The Aurora ZIP is named after the implant used to bridge the two vertebrae together, known as the Aurora ZIP Interspinous Spacer.
Spinal Instability Causes, Signs, and Symptoms
Spinal or lumbar instability arises when there is an excessive range of motion between two vertebrae, as previously mentioned. Spinal instability can also be caused by natural factors such as aging, wear and tear on the spine, and gradual deterioration of the spinal discs. It can also be caused by spine conditions that also lead to significant wear and tear on the spinal discs and vertebrae.
A few causes, signs, and symptoms to be aware of include:
Natural Causes
As we age, our spinal discs lose their water content and become less resilient, which can cause them to degenerate and lose their ability to absorb shock. This can lead to spinal instability and a range of associated symptoms, including chronic pain, reduced mobility, and even nerve damage in severe cases.
Signs and symptoms of Spinal Instability
- Stiffness
- Low back pain
- Intense, sharp leg pains
- Weakness when walking
Spine Instability Complications
Spinal instability can lead to significant wear and tear on the spine, damage to the spinal discs and vertebrae, and other structural changes that can weaken the spine's stability. If left untreated, spinal instability can lead to chronic pain, limited mobility, and other serious complications.
Types of Pain Conditions that Aurora ZIP Can Treat
The Aurora ZIP procedure can help ease the symptoms of many common pain conditions. Patients who suffer from these pain conditions might find relief with this procedure due to its ability to target affected areas without the need for medications or surgery.
If you've been diagnosed with one or more of the symptoms or conditions above, you must contact a pain specialist to see if a lumbar interbody fusion is right for you. To effectively manage your pain symptoms, getting diagnosed early and receiving treatment as soon as possible is important.
Who is a Good Candidate for an Aurora ZIP Lumber Fusion?
Before opting for the Aurora ZIP spine procedure, patients should consider various factors, including the severity of their spinal condition, overall health status, and lifestyle goals. This will help to determine if the Aurora ZIP Procedure is the right choice for them.
Ideal candidates for lumbar fusion surgery typically have chronic spine-related pain or discomfort caused by degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, or spinal stenosis that requires stabilization without sacrificing mobility. It is also ideal for individuals who are looking for an alternative to major back surgery and have not had success with nonsurgical treatment options like physical therapy, medication, and spinal injections.
At Pain and Spine Specialists, our consultation process is comprehensive and patient-centered. We take the time to thoroughly understand your condition before recommending an approach like the Aurora ZIP. Here's what to expect in our detailed consultation process:
Medical History Review
We start by delving into your medical history. This essential step allows us to understand the full context of your health. We look at past illnesses, surgeries, treatments, and medication usage. You are more than just your pain, and understanding your complete medical background helps us provide a holistic approach to your pain management.
Physical Examination
Next, our skilled doctors conduct a thorough physical examination. This hands-on approach helps us identify any physical signs or symptoms that might be contributing to your pain. We assess your overall health, range of motion, reflexes, strength, and any areas of tenderness or discomfort.
Diagnostic Imaging
We will request or review previous advanced diagnostic imaging such as X-rays, MRI, and CT scans to get a detailed picture of your body's inner workings. These images allow us to pinpoint any structural abnormalities that may be causing your pain. For those considering the Aurora ZIP lumbar fusion, these images are vital in determining if this procedure is the right fit for you.
Nerve Tests
If applicable, we may also conduct nerve tests to assess the health and function of your nerves. These tests can help us determine if any nerve damage or dysfunction is contributing to your pain.
Diagnostic Nerve Blocks
Sometimes, we recommend diagnostic nerve blocks such as facet joint injections, epidural steroid injections, SI injections, or medial branch blocks. These procedures can help us identify specific nerves or nerve groups that may be contributing to your pain. Additionally, they can provide temporary pain relief, offering you a glimpse of what life could be like after the Aurora ZIP lumbar fusion.
We believe that understanding is the first step towards healing. Our thorough and empathetic consultation process ensures we fully understand your pain before recommending a treatment plan.
The Aurora ZIP Procedure Spine Preparation, Process, and Recovery
The Aurora ZIP procedure is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning the patient can go home on the same day of surgery. The entire procedure takes about one to two hours and involves a series of steps before, during, and after the surgery.
An outline of those steps looks like:
Preparing for the Aurora Lumbar Spine Fusion
Before treatment, your physician will evaluate your medical history and pain symptoms and discuss all pain relief treatment options to ensure Aurora ZIP is right for you. You should inform your provider about any medications you are currently taking, as well as any pre-existing conditions or health concerns. Your healthcare team will provide you with detailed instructions on how to prepare for the procedure, which may include fasting, adjusting medications, or arranging for transportation to and from the treatment center.
The Aurora ZIP Procedure
This minimally invasive lumbar fusion involves creating a small incision and inserting the implant into the affected area of the spine. The implant consists of two plates fastened onto either side of the damaged disc and a spring mechanism that provides stability and support for the spine. Bridging these two vertebrae helps strengthen and stabilize the spine to reduce pain symptoms and improve the patient's functionality.
The steps of the Aurora ZIP procedure are:
- 1Anesthesia: To ensure your comfort during the procedure, you will receive local anesthesia, numbing the treatment area.
- 2Incision and Preparation: Your surgeon will make a small incision near the affected area, ensuring minimal disruption of the surrounding tissue.
- 3Aurora ZIP Device Placement: The innovative Aurora ZIP device is carefully inserted through the incision, guided by advanced imaging technology to ensure precise placement.
- 4Device Locking and Bone Graft: The implant is packed with the appropriate amount of bone graft then the device is locked in place.
- 5Closure: The incision is closed using sutures or medical adhesive, leaving a minimal scar.
Post-Operative Care and Recovery
Most patients can expect to need about one week to fully recover from their Aurora ZIP procedure. Fast recovery time is one of the many benefits of the Aurora lumbar interbody fusion procedure. Unlike major back surgery, which can take several months to recover, patients only need about one week to recover from Aurora ZIP lumbar fusion treatment.
In the postoperative period, you can expect:
The Aurora ZIP procedure for spinal stenosis uses minimally invasive techniques for targeted treatment that promote faster healing and recovery than traditional surgical techniques.
Spinal Stenosis is predicted to increase to about 18 million people affected in the next decade. - NIH
A 2021 review of the Efficacy of a The Aurora ZIP reported a 67% average reduction of pain after the procedure. - NIH
In a 3-month analysis 54 patients reports 82% improvement. - NIH
How Soon Will I See the Results?
The Aurora ZIP lumbar spinal fusion is a fast-acting treatment that provides near-immediate results upon completion of the procedure recovery timeframe. Patients can expect to notice significant improvements in their pain quickly thanks to the implanted spacer fixing the root source of the patient's pain and discomfort.
Patients shouldn't have to compromise their quality of life to tolerate their pain symptoms any longer than necessary. This is why seeking professional help to relieve your pain symptoms is essential.
While Aurora ZIP is considered an effective option for treating back and leg pain caused by spinal instability, traditional back surgery may be recommended for patients who continue to experience pain and discomfort months post-treatment.
Long-Term Effect and Benefits of Aurora ZIP
ZIP fusion surgery is a one-time procedure that provides long-term pain-relieving benefits. This treatment is considered long-lasting because it relieves pain for several months to years. Also, because the Aurora ZIP procedure is minimally invasive, there is less recovery time, so patients can quickly resume their daily activities after treatment.
Depending on a patient's rate of spinal degeneration and overall spinal instability will impact how long the Aurora ZIP treatment results last. If a patient continues to experience spinal instability and ongoing back and leg pain, traditional back surgery may be recommended.
Patient Self-Reported Experiences
Numerous patient testimonials and experiences further support the positive impact of Aurora ZIP. Many individuals who have undergone the treatment report noticeable improvements in their condition, including reduced pain and enhanced mental well-being. These personal accounts serve as powerful evidence of the potential benefits Aurora ZIP can provide, offering hope and inspiration to those considering the treatment for themselves.
“I had a sacroiliac fusion surgery with the Aurora SiLO implant about three and a half weeks ago. I felt the difference right away and I went home the same day. I am very happy that I did the surgery.”
— Michael H., SiLO MIS Implant patient (from Aurora Pain Care Website)
Explore Our Webinars and Podcasts
Learn About Aurora ZIP Directly from the Board-Certified Doctors at Pain And Spine Specialists!
Aurora ZIP Fusion Offers an Alternative to Major Surgery
There are several advantages to undergoing the Aurora ZIP fusion procedure vs. traditional back surgery, such as:
Best Spine Fusion Maryland, Pennsylvania, Florida, and Virginia
Aurora ZIP fusion offers a groundbreaking, minimally invasive treatment method for managing pain and improving the quality of life for countless individuals. By targeting specific areas of discomfort with precision and care, Aurora ZIP provides lasting relief from chronic pain without the need for extensive surgery or long recovery periods.
At Pain and Spine Specialists, our team of advanced pain specialists is committed to providing patients with the best possible treatment options to safely and effectively manage their pain. We understand that living with chronic spinal pain can be overwhelming. Our mission is to guide you towards a more comfortable life, offering a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs.
Our Comprehensive Approach
Our team of experienced specialists is committed to providing the highest standard of care for patients undergoing Aurora ZIP Lumbar Fusion. This procedure is an innovative solution for spinal stenosis, and we are proud to offer it as part of our extensive range of treatment options.
We believe in a holistic approach to pain management. When designing your treatment plan, we consider all aspects of your health, including physical, emotional, and lifestyle factors. Post-procedure, we closely monitor your progress, adjusting the plan as necessary based on your feedback and our ongoing assessments.
Our commitment doesn't end there. We understand that every patient's journey is unique, and sometimes, additional or alternative treatments may be required. Rest assured, we are equipped with a diverse range of pain management techniques and treatments, ready to adapt to your evolving needs.
How to Get Started
Starting your journey with Pain and Spine Specialists is simple. You can reach out to us via phone or email to schedule your initial consultation. During this appointment, we will discuss your medical history, current symptoms, and goals for treatment. We have offices in of Maryland, Pennsylvania, Florida, and Virginia.
Long-term side effects of using an intrathecal pain pump can include infection, bleeding, pump malfunction, and medication-related issues. However, these risks are generally low and can be managed with proper care and monitoring.
Coverage for this procedure varies greatly by insurance provider and plan. It's best to contact your insurance company directly to understand your coverage.
Alternatives can include physical therapy, medications, injections, or other surgical procedures such as spinal fusion or traditional open decompression surgery.
You can use online resources like the American Board of Spine Surgery's directory, or consult with your primary care physician or local hospital for referrals.
You can search online directories, such as those provided by the American Association of Neurological Surgeons or the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Your primary care doctor may also be able to provide a referral.
Yes, it is considered a minimally invasive treatment due to the small incisions used and the lessened impact on surrounding tissues compared to traditional surgery.
The cost of the procedure can vary significantly depending on location, surgeon experience, and insurance coverage. It's best to discuss this with your healthcare provider and insurance company.
Coverage can vary, so it's best to check directly with Medicare or Medicaid. Some policies may cover the procedure if it's deemed medically necessary.
About Us
We are a comprehensive pain management practice with board certified Aurora Zip doctors in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.
Digital Guide
View our providers, locations, services, and patient reviews.
More Resources
Here is a list of resources that were discussed on this page:
Treatment Candidates
Patients with the following conditions may be candidates for an Aurora Zip:
Related Pain Regions
Aurora Zip is often used to treat pain in the following regions:
Find a Location
If you are searching for "Aurora Zip near me" then click button to search by zip-code.
Contact Us
Stop tolerating your pain, hoping it will go away on its own. Contact us today so we can help create a comprehensive treatment plan!
Schedule Appointment
Ask A General Question
Ask A Question
Billing / Insurance Question
Billing / Insurance
Cancel / Reschedule Request
Cancel / Reschedule
*We accept workers' comp and personal injury claim patients
*We accept workers' comp and personal injury claim patients
Appointment FAQ's
We Accept All Insurances!
That includes Medicare and state Medicaid.
Usually within one week of the initial call.
Appointments can be schedule by phone or through our contact form here.
At Pain and Spine Specialists we provide comprehensive pain care while offering the most up-to-date minimally invasive techniques. Our ethos is to treat each patient (and potential patient) as if they were a family member.
At Pain and Spine Specialists we want to provide the most efficient and pleasurable experience possible. As in all medical facilities, we have certain policies in place to ensure that you receive the time you require to address your needs as well as enhance your experience while in our care.
We encourage patient feedback to better improve your experience. We strive to create a friendly and warm environment where patients feel their voices are heard and validated.
Meet Our Team
Aurora Zip Lumbar fusion doctors in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Florida and Virginia
At Pain and Spine Specialist, our board-certified Aurora Zip specialists have dedicated over 20 years to providing exceptional pain management care. Serving patients in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Florida, and Virginia, our team of experienced physicians, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners are committed to offering effective, minimally invasive spine surgery options tailored to each individual's needs.
