I do strongly agree with the theory of the TOPS procedure in that it does allow some (very little but some ) range of motion within the segment involved; so theoretically is will reduce the increased stress on the vertebra at either ends outside where a fusion would be done. I was told by two surgeons that my only options for my spinal condition was either the TOPS or a fusion. I was told by both surgeons that a fusion would take a full year to heal.
*I was informed by the surgeons office that Medicare may not pay for the hardware; but with only a 3 month full healing time with the TOPS procedure, I felt getting 9 months back in my life was worth paying for the non covered portion of the surgery. Note, because the procedure is relatively new, the long term results are not published yet.