Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure during which two or more vertebrae (the small bones that form your spine) are fused together so that they form a single, strong bone. The surgery reduces pain and restores stability to your spine.
When is spinal fusion recommended?
Some of the conditions relieved by spinal fusion surgery include:
What happens during spinal fusion surgery?
Depending on which part of your spine is affected, spinal fusion surgery can be performed in your lumbar (lower back) area, or your cervical area (around your neck).
Your surgeon may also choose to approach the surgery either from the front, the back, or laterally. Depending on their preferred approach, they will make an incision in your lower abdomen or in the front of your neck, or down the middle of your lower back. Your consultant will use a bone graft and place it between your vertebrae to help them heal together. Your surgeon may also fix your spine with plates and screws.
Depending on whether a nerve is compressed, your surgeon may also perform nerve decompression surgery at the same time as fusion surgery.
Benefits and risks of the surgery
People who require spinal fusion surgery usually find movement painful. By fusing two vertebrae together, spinal fusion prevents motion in that area, which reduces pain. The procedure also stops your nerves and ligaments around the painful area from stretching and causing symptoms.
Spinal fusion may reduce the flexibility of your spine or its range of motion. However, the procedure is usually performed on small segments of your spine, so most people do not notice this decrease in their mobility in everyday life.
Spinal fusion surgery carries the small general risks of any surgery, as well as specific risks. Possible risks and complications include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Nerve damage
- Blood clots
- Anaesthesia risks
- Pain at the site where your vertebrae were fused together
- Persisting symptoms
- Your bones not fusing together properly
Your recovery after spinal fusion surgery
After surgery, you may have to wear a brace to help keep your spine stable and protected as it heals. You may be prescribed NSAIDs or opioids to help you manage the pain from the surgery.
You will start a physiotherapy program after surgery. This will help you keep your spine aligned in the right position and your bones to heal. Full healing of the fused vertebrae can take several months, so it is always best to discuss your recovery timeline with your consultant, who will understand your personal circumstances and be able to offer specific information based on this.