Treatment of Baastrup Syndrome (Kissing Spine) in Israel

The first step towards recovery is timely and accurate diagnosis. At Ichilov, diagnosis and treatment are conducted under the supervision of multidisciplinary teams. Teamwork allows for the analysis of clinical cases from different perspectives and the selection of the most promising therapy methods. Treatment programs are tailored to the unique characteristics of each condition. The hospital actively engages in clinical research and provides patients access to innovative drugs and treatment methods that are often unavailable in other countries.

Patients at Ichilov receive a full range of services, including assistance with travel and accommodation, accompanied by a coordinator-translator.

About the Disease

Baastrup syndrome (kissing spine, s.Baastrup, syndrome of impingement of spinous processes, interspinous diarthrosis, bursitis of the interspinous ligament, disease of kissing spinous processes) refers to a type of spondylosis of the lumbar spine. This neurological pathology occurs when there is direct contact between the bony protrusions of adjacent vertebrae, most often in the lumbar region. The disease was first described in 1933 by Danish radiologist Christian Ingerslev Baastrup.

The causes of abnormal proximity of the spinous processes include:

• age-related or traumatic degenerative changes in the spine; excessive lordosis, regardless of the reasons for the increased curvature;
• osteoarthritis;
• increased physical load.

The most common and characteristic signs of the problem may include:

• pain that concentrates in the lower back but may radiate to deeper areas of the back or even along the nerve roots;
• limited mobility;
• increased pain with certain movements that lead to contact between the spinous processes.

Treatment Methods for the Disease

At Ichilov, the treatment of Baastrup syndrome, or "kissing spines," is conducted comprehensively. The goal of therapy is to reduce pain and inflammation, improve mobility, and enhance the patient's quality of life.

Anti-inflammatory Therapy

To alleviate pain and the inflammatory process, modern non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used. This group of medications is employed as primary therapy. Ichilov uses the latest generation of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which have improved efficacy and minimal risks of side effects.

Corticosteroid Therapy

Corticosteroid injections may be used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation in the affected vertebrae. These procedures involve the direct injection of corticosteroid medications into the area of inflammation. The dosage and regimen of the medications are calculated based on the specifics of the individual case and the patient's response.

Surgical Intervention

In rare cases, when conservative treatment does not provide relief and Baastrup syndrome significantly impairs quality of life, surgical intervention may be considered.

The peculiarity of the pathology is the cystic connection of the posterior elements of the vertebrae, causing the inflammatory process. Inflammation occurs between the tips of the vertebral arches, which are too close together, even touching. This provokes pain and limits movement in the spinal area, especially in the lumbar region.

There are several surgical approaches used depending on the specific symptoms and anatomical features of the patient:

• resection of the fusion, pseudoarthrosis, or hypertrophied elements. The most common surgical method involves removing part of the bone or bony growths, inflammatory tissue that causes friction and pain.
• decompressive laminectomy. In some cases, part of one or more vertebrae (laminectomy) may be removed to reduce pressure on nerve structures.
• minimally invasive spinal surgery techniques with minimal trauma to surrounding tissues and a shorter recovery period. Surgeries are performed using endoscopic surgical equipment under computer visual control.
• spinal fixation or stabilization. In cases where there is suspicion of spinal instability, a specific surgical operation using implants (spinal fusion) is performed.

The choice of a specific surgical technique depends on many factors, including the degree and localization of the lesion, and the presence of comorbid health issues.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy procedures are an important component of treatment. This is a set of specialized activities aimed at improving flexibility and strengthening the muscles that support the spine. Ichilov has developed original complexes that include stretching, exercises for developing and strengthening muscle mass, and manual therapy. All methods of intervention are tailored individually.

In addition to classical therapy, various alternative approaches are used at Ichilov, including massages, manual therapy, and osteopathic manipulative treatment. These and other methods aim to reduce pain and restore function by improving joint mobility, reducing muscle tension, and enhancing blood circulation.

Diagnostic Methods for the Disease

At Ichilov, the characteristic proximity of the posterior edges of the upper surfaces of the vertebrae is quickly and accurately identified, and the cause of their pathological contact is determined. Typically, it takes about three days to confirm the diagnosis and clarify the prognosis.

First Day

The doctor begins by getting acquainted with the patient's medical and family history, as well as discussing current symptoms. During the physical examination, the flexibility of the spine, the presence of pain points, and the assessment of motor activity and sensitivity are checked.

Second Day

• X-ray
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Computed Tomography (CT)
• Laboratory tests

In some cases, an injection blockade may be used to accurately determine the source of pain. If pain sensations decrease or disappear after the injection, this may serve as confirmation of the diagnosis.

Third Day

After comprehensive diagnostics and confirmation of the diagnosis, a multidisciplinary team of doctors selects an individual treatment program.

How Much Does Treatment Cost

Advantages of Treatment at Ichilov Clinic

1. Experience in successfully treating various types of spinal spondylosis
2. Personalized approach to each patient
3. Close collaboration among doctors working in multidisciplinary teams
4. Unique physical therapy and rehabilitation programs
5. State-of-the-art diagnostic and therapeutic equipment

Rely on the knowledge and experience of doctors specializing in the treatment of degenerative changes in the spine. Modern technologies allow for remote consultations via video link in Zoom or Skype with a leading neurologist at Ichilov, all from the comfort of your home. The doctor will review your medical reports and test results and discuss the most effective methods relevant to your specific case.