Possover Blog - Latest news and trends in the world of medicine

A New Era in Spinal Cord Injury Treatment: The Possover LION Procedure

Written by Marc Possover | Apr 18, 2025 12:57:06 PM

Prof. Prof. DK Prof. Dr. med. Marc Possover, MD, PhD

 

 

 

More than 150 patients worldwide have already experienced the transformative potential of the LION procedure.

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a life-altering condition, traditionally associated with permanent disability and dependency. But recent advances in medical science are offering new hope—none more exciting than the LION (Laparoscopic Implantation of Neurostimulation electrodes) procedure, developed by Prof. Dr. Marc Possover, pioneer in Neuropelveology.

WHAT IS THE "POSSOVER LION PROCEDURE"?

The LION Procedure is a minimally invasive laparoscopic technique in which electrodes are implanted directly onto key pelvic nerves (such as the pudendal, femoral, and sciatic nerves) to stimulate motor and vegetative functions. These electrodes are connected to a rechargeable neurostimulator, implanted under the skin of the abdomen.

Unlike conventional therapies, the LION procedure does not cut nerves, and the system is fully reversible. It is tailored to help patients with spastic paraplegia or tetraplegia, especially those who still retain some residual motor or sensory function (incomplete SCI).

OVER 150 PATIENTS - AND GROWING

To date, over 150 patients from around the world have undergone the LION procedure. Our experience across a broad spectrum of SCI conditions shows:

  • 93% of patients regain the ability to stand
  • 70% recover voluntary, electrically-assisted knee extension
  • 70% achieve walking over 10 meters using crutches or a walker

These results are unmatched by any other neuromodulation or rehabilitation technique.

MORE THAN JUST MOVEMENT

The LION procedure doesn't only aim to restore mobility. It has profound effects on vegetative functions such as:

  • Gluteal muscle strengthening
  • Prevention of pressure ulcers
  • Improved bone density and reduced osteoporosis risk
  • Better circulation and peripheral vasodilation
  • Reduced depression and improved emotional wellbeing

By reactivating pelvic nerves, the LION Procedure addresses both motor and autonomic dysfunctions.

Who Is a Candidate?

The LION Procedure is ideal for patients with:

  • Spastic SCI (paraplegia or tetraplegia)
  • Incomplete cauda equina syndrome
  • Transverse myelitis
  • Multiple sclerosis with motor impairment

Crucially, candidates must show signs of nerve responsiveness and spasticity - evidence that the neural pathways can still be activated.

Commitment to Recovery

Success with the LION Procedure depends not only on surgical precision but also on patient dedication. Post-operative training is critical: muscle building, standing programs, and progressive walking exercises with physiotherapists are all part of the journey.

A Vision for the Future

With robotic surgery in Neurosurgery and specialized training in Neuropelveology, the LION Procedure is becoming more refined and accessible. It offers not just the dream—but the realistic possibility—of regaining independence after SCI.

 

🧠 Developed by Prof. Dr. Marc Possover—Founder of Neuropelveology and the LION Procedure.

🔗 Learn more at www.possover.com

📚 Education and certification in Neuropelveology: www.possover-neuropelveology.com