Definition of Spinal fusion:

Spinal fusion is surgery to correct problems in the spine bones (vertebrae). The surgery stabilizes the back by permanently placing certain bones in the spine together.

Fusing means two bones are permanently placed together so that movement between them can no longer occur.

Spinal fusion is usually done along with other surgical procedures of the spine, such as a diskectomy .

Description:

Spinal fusion surgery uses bone grafts, with or without screws, plates, cages, or other devices. The bone grafts are placed around the problem area of the spine during surgery. As the body heals itself, the graft helps join the bones together.

The most common spinal area treated is the lower (lumbar) spine. However, it can also be done on the upper (cervical) spine.

The procedure is performed while you are under general anesthesia (unconscious and pain-free). The surgeon makes a cut over the area of the spine that will be treated.

If you are having a problem in the lower spine corrected, the repair is done through a surgical cut made directly over the spine. This is called the posterior lumbar approach.

If you are having a problem in the upper spine corrected, the repair is usually done through a surgical cut in the front or side of the neck (anterior cervical spine).

If you are having a problem in the middle spine corrected, the repair is sometimes done through a surgical cut in the chest and abdomen (anterior thoracic spine).

Depending on the reason for surgery, the procedure may involve a combination of surgical cuts.

Indications:

Spinal fusion may be recommended for:

• Abnormal curvatures, such as those seen with scoliosis or kyphosis
• Injury or fractures to the bones in the spine
• Herniated disk
• Spinal stenosis
• Weak or unstable spine caused by infections or tumors

If the pain is persistent and does not respond to other treatments, surgery is considered to relieve the pressure on the nerves.

Surgery is also performed for muscle weakness that does not improve or is getting worse, and for patients having bladder or bowel problems.