Coflex Procedure
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As premier hip and knee replacement surgeons in Charleston, SC, Dr. Zimlich and Dr. Stem alleviate patient pain and discomfort using innovative techniques and technologies. Concentrating exclusively on knee and hip replacement, the Lowcountry Orthopaedics Hip and Knee Specialists operate at the Lowcountry Orthopaedics Surgery Center and area hospitals per patient preference.
Top rated for eight years in a row as Charleston’s Choice for best orthopedic surgeons, countless of satisfied patients walk away with a pain free, natural feeling knee or hip. From custom total knee arthroplasty using 3D printing to the area’s first and only outpatient surgery center based robotic knee replacement program, patients trust Lowcountry Orthopaedics Hip and Knee Specialists.
Signature services include:
- Custom total knee arthroplasty using 3D printing
- Same day robotic knee replacement program
- Personalized joint replacement experience
- Dedicated team of nurses, physician assistants, and physical therapists
- Proven outcomes for quick recovery and pain-free lives
Same day appointments are available at one of our convenient North Charleston, Summerville, or Daniel Island locations.
What is the Coflex Procedure?
This minimally invasive procedure is done via a 1-2 inch incision. It is done in conjunction with a lumbar laminectomy, which is a procedure where we remove the arthritis that is “choking” the lumbar nerves. Patients are under full anesthesia and go home the same day. It usually takes less than 60 minutes.
The Coflex procedure is used to treat low back and hip pain that may also radiate into the buttocks, posterior thighs, and lower legs. The procedure is done in the lumbar spine and can be used to treat spinal stenosis, which is a very common condition.
Why Do We Recommend This Procedure?
- Minimally invasive, same day, ‘out-patient’ procedure.
- Small incision.
- This is a non-fusion surgery.
- You are asleep for the procedure.
- Minimal pain & minimal restrictions during recovery.
- Implant is MRI compatible.
- This surgery does not limit your future treatment options.
Who Is A Candidate For This Procedure?
- Patients with low back pain or leg pain.
- Patients whose back/leg pain gets worse with walking.
- Patients trying to avoid complex ‘open’ surgery.
- Patients with stenosis next to a prior surgery.
- Patients who lean forward while walking to relieve pain.
Schedule an appointment with one of our Board Certified Spine Specialists to discuss the Coflex procedure.
Services
Spine disorders
Spine fusion
Minimally invasive spine surgery
Cervical radiculopathy
Candidates for Coflex
Patients with predominantly low back pain that may extend into the buttocks, hips, and posterior thighs. Patients who lean forward when walking or lean on a shopping cart to get relief. Patients with cramping in their legs or those who can’t walk as far as they would like. Patients of all ages, including those who have had prior surgery or have never had surgery.
What Is The Process Like?
Usually, this procedure is done at our surgery center. You are completely asleep under anesthesia. It usually takes 60 minutes. The incision is 1-2 inches, and there is minimal post-procedure pain. You go home the same day with little to no restrictions.
Why Choose Lowcountry Orthopaedics?
Our Spine Specialists are trained in complex spine as well as minimally invasive spine. The Coflex procedure allows us to offer our patients another non-fusion option that is also long-lasting and durable. If you have lumbar stenosis, this may be the right option for you. Let us help you make that determination.
Lowcountry Orthopaedics’ Spine Team

Christopher Battista, MD
Spine Surgeon

Don Stovall, Jr, MD
Spine Surgeon

Sabino D’Agostino, DO
Spine Surgeon

Kylie Smith, MSN-FNP
Nurse Practitioner

Carey Lennon, PA-C
Physician Assistant

Amanda Crowley, NP
Nurse Practitioner
Hip & Knee Specialists
Fast forward to feeling better with Lowcountry Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine’s board-certified and fellowship-trained surgeons that specialize in joint reconstruction and hip and knee surgery.
Same Day Appointments
Same-Day Joint Replacement
The benefits of same-day total hip or knee replacement surgery include fast recovery, lower risk of infection, no risk of hospital-acquired illness, cost reduction, and increased patient satisfaction. Patients interested in same-day joint surgery should schedule an evaluation with Dr. Zimlich to review their medical profile for candidacy.