What Is Spinal Fusion Surgery?

Spinal fusion surgery entails the permanent joining, or “fusing,” of two or more vertebrae in the spine by means of bone grafts, metal rods, screws or other devices such as metal rods. This process eliminates movement between fused vertebrae, providing stability to the spine while decreasing pain levels. Spinal fusion can often be recommended in situations such as degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, scoliosis fractures or spondylolisthesis where instability or pain exists in the spine.

Who Will Perform Your Spinal Fusion Surgery?

Chirayu Super Speciality Hospital provides experienced spine surgeons who specialize in spinal fusion surgeries at both traditional and minimally invasive approaches for each procedure performed on patients at Chirayu Super Speciality Hospital, making sure each person receives optimal and effective treatment plans tailored specifically to their own unique condition and goals. Our team offers both traditional and minimally invasive techniques for spinal fusion that ensure the most suitable care plan. We work closely with every individual to develop personalized plans tailored specifically for them and their specific condition/goals when considering surgery at Chirayu Super Speciality Hospital.

Types of Spinal Fusion Surgery

• Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF) : Involves fusing vertebrae from the back of the spine using bone grafts and implants.
• Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF) : Fusion is performed from the front of the spine, often used for lower back problems.
• Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) : A minimally invasive approach, fusing vertebrae from the side, reducing tissue damage and recovery time.
• Cervical Fusion : Fusion of the vertebrae in the neck to treat cervical spine conditions, such as herniated discs or fractures.

Symptoms Indicating Need for Spinal Fusion

Common indicators that an individual may require spinal fusion include chronic back pain that does not respond to conservative treatments, leg pain due to sciatica, numbness, tingling or weakness in legs, spinal instability or deformities like scoliosis – symptoms which significantly hinder daily activities and overall quality of life.

Diagnosis for Spinal Fusion Surgery

Evaluation is crucial when diagnosing spinal fusion surgery, including reviewing medical history, physical exam and imaging studies such as X-rays, MRI or CT scans to help establish its severity or degeneration, guiding decisions regarding surgery accordingly. These assessments help pinpoint areas of instability or degeneration while aiding decision makers on whether surgery would be beneficial.

Treatment Process

Spinal fusion surgery typically begins with anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. A surgeon then makes an incision in order to access the spine, depending on its fusion type. Bone grafts (from either within the patient’s own body or donated from outside sources) may then be placed between vertebrae to promote fusion; metal rods, screws or plates may then be added for stability during this process which may last several hours depending on its complexity.

Care and Recovery After Surgery

Recovery from spinal fusion surgery involves a hospital stay of a few days, followed by a period of rest and gradual return to activities. Pain management, physical therapy, and rehabilitation exercises are critical components of the recovery process, helping to restore strength, flexibility, and mobility. Most patients can resume normal activities within a few months, although complete healing and fusion may take several months to a year.