Spinal Fusion Surgeries: Indications & More

What are Spinal Fusion Surgeries?

Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure that joins two or more vertebrae together to prevent movement between them. The goal of spinal fusion is to provide stability to the spine and reduce pain caused by the movement of the affected vertebrae. This is typically done by using bone grafts, which are placed between the vertebrae to fuse them together. Spinal fusion can be done through an open or minimally invasive approach.

What Are The Types Of Spinal Fusion Surgeries?

There are several types of spinal fusion, including:

• Anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF): This procedure is done through an incision in the abdomen and the surgeon accesses the spine from the front and places the bone grafts between the vertebrae to fuse them together.
• Posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF): This procedure is done through an incision in the back and the surgeon accesses the spine from the back and places the bone grafts between the vertebrae to fuse them together.
• Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF): This procedure is also done through an incision in the back, but the surgeon accesses the spine through a small opening between the vertebrae and places the bone grafts between the vertebrae to fuse them together.
• Lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF): This procedure is done through an incision on the side of the patient's body, and the surgeon accesses the spine from the side and places the bone grafts between the vertebrae to fuse them together.
• Cervical spinal fusion: This procedure is done in the neck region and the goal is to stabilize the cervical spine and reduce pain or nerve compression.

Spinal fusion surgeries are typically done to treat conditions such as degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, scoliosis, and spinal fractures, among others. It's important to note that spinal fusion is not recommended for all patients and other forms of treatment such as physical therapy, medication, and nerve blocks should be considered before deciding to undergo surgery. A patient should consult with a spine specialist who can evaluate the specific condition and recommend the best course of treatment.

When is a Spinal Fusion Surgery Recommended?

There are several indications for spinal fusion surgery, including:

• Degenerative disc disease: This condition occurs when the discs between the vertebrae begin to wear out and lose their cushioning ability. Spinal fusion can be used to stabilize the spine and reduce pain.
• Spinal stenosis: This condition occurs when the spinal canal becomes narrowed, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. Spinal fusion can be used to relieve pressure on the nerves and alleviate pain.
• Spondylolisthesis: This condition occurs when one vertebra slips out of place onto the vertebra below it. Spinal fusion can be used to stabilize the spine and reduce pain.
• Scoliosis: This is a condition in which the spine has a side-to-side curve. Spinal fusion can be used to correct the curve and reduce pain.
• Trauma: Spinal fractures or dislocations can also be treated with spinal fusion surgery.
• Tumors: Spinal tumors can cause instability and compression of the spinal cord and nerve roots. In such cases, spinal fusion can be used to stabilize the spine and alleviate symptoms.

It is important to note that spinal fusion is usually considered a last resort after all other non-surgical options have been exhausted and the patient's condition is severe enough to justify the risks and recovery time of the surgery.

How Is A Spinal Fusion Surgery Performed?

The specific procedure can vary depending on the indication for the surgery, the location of the affected vertebrae, and the surgeon's preferred technique. However, the general steps of the procedure are as follows:

• Anesthesia: The patient will be given general anesthesia to put them to sleep during the surgery.
• Incision: The surgeon will make an incision in the patient's back or neck, depending on the location of the affected vertebrae.
• Exposure of the spine: The muscles and soft tissues covering the spine will be carefully moved aside to expose the affected vertebrae.
• Preparation of the vertebrae: The surgeon will remove any damaged or diseased parts of the vertebrae and prepare the surfaces to be fused.
• Bone grafting: The surgeon will then place bone graft material between the two vertebrae. The bone graft material can be harvested from the patient's own body, such as the iliac crest, or from a bone bank.
• Hardware placement: The surgeon may use metal plates, screws, rods, or other hardware to hold the vertebrae in place while the bone graft material heals and fuses the vertebrae together.
• Closure: The muscles and soft tissues will be repositioned and closed with sutures or staples. A dressing will be applied to the incision.
• Post-operative care: The patient will typically need to stay in the hospital for a few days after the surgery to recover and begin physical therapy. Recovery time varies depending on the patient's overall health and the extent of the surgery.

It is important to note that spinal fusion is a major surgery and recovery can take several months. The patient will need to follow a strict schedule of physical therapy to regain strength and range of motion in their back.

How Is The Recovery After A Spinal Fusion Surgery?

The specific recovery process will depend on the individual patient, the location and extent of the surgery, and the patient's overall health. However, some general guidelines for recovery include:

• Pain management: Patients will experience some pain and discomfort following the surgery, which can be managed with pain medication.
• Physical therapy: Physical therapy is an important part of the recovery process, as it will help patients regain strength and range of motion in their back. Physical therapy may begin in the hospital and continue on an outpatient basis.
• Activity restrictions: Patients will be advised to avoid strenuous activities, such as heavy lifting or twisting, for several weeks after the surgery.
• Follow-up appointments: Patients will need to follow up with their surgeon to monitor the healing process and ensure that the fusion is progressing as expected.
• Return to normal activities: Patients will typically be able to return to normal activities, such as work and driving, within a few weeks to a few months after the surgery. However, it may take several months for patients to fully recover and return to normal activities.
• Medications: Pain medications, anti-inflammatories, and antibiotics may be prescribed to help with the recovery process.
• Wearing a brace: Depending on the location of the surgery the surgeon may advise wearing a brace to help stabilize the spine and limit movement during the healing process.
• Follow-up imaging: The surgeon will schedule follow-up imaging, such as X-rays or CT scans, to monitor the progress of the fusion and ensure that the bones have grown together as they should.

It is important to keep in mind that recovery can be a long and difficult process, but with patience, persistence, and proper rehabilitation, most patients are able to return to normal activities.

What Is The Prognosis For Spinal Fusion Surgeries?

Overall, spinal fusion surgery can be an effective treatment for patients with conditions that are causing instability in the spine or nerve compression. With proper care and rehabilitation, patients can expect to experience significant pain relief and improvement in mobility. At Medfin we can guide you on the treatment methods for any conditions that affect your spine.

Why Choose Medfin?

Surgery can be a daunting aspect, and feeling anxious is absolutely normal. The massive amount of information you can get from the internet may confuse you even more. This is where Medfin can help. Leave us the hefty task of finding the best hospital, the finest doctor, and the latest procedure at the lowest cost. Let us take charge while you sit back and focus on your health and recovery. Think surgery! Think Medfin!