[Results of the Wallis interspinous spacer].

An increasing number of different interspinous devices are being used for different indications. The Wallis interspinous implant was invented in 1986 by Mr. Jacques Sénégas as one of the first modern interspinous devices. The primary intention of Sénégas was to improve segmental stabilisation, based on the unloading of the facet joints and the disc. The Wallis system is easy to handle and the early clinical results are promising. How far the early outcome will lead to good long-term results is unknown, because there are no long-term results in the literature till now. Limiting factors for the devices are the possible biomechanical overload, the loosening of the implants and the lytic zones around the spinous processes after more than 1 year.