A spinal fusion is a surgical procedure, most commonly done in the lower region of the spine. It is performed when there is pain as a result of unusual shifting by the vertebrae. The surgery involves bringing the movement to a stop by uniting two or more vertebrae together. A spinal fusion incorporates supplementary bone tissue while staying conscious of the patient's natural bone formation.
Function
Spinal fusions eliminate pain and neurological problems that may be associated with scoliosis, a vertebral fracture, a spinal tumor, degenerative disc disease, spinal disc herniation and a number of other conditions.
Types
A person may either have a posterolateral fusion, which places the bone tissue between the transverse processes of the vertebrae, or an interbody fusion, which places the tissue in the area typically holding the intervertebral disc.
Time Frame
A spinal fusion surgery requires the placement of screws, rods or plates to assist in the fusion progress, and the fusion development can generally be expected to be completed six to 12 months after the surgery.
Considerations
A spinal fusion is most effective for a patient only needing a fusion in one segment. A fusion involving two or more segments is unlikely to relieve any pain, as it removes a lot of the normal range of motion and places stress on other joints.
Warning
Several factors, such as osteoporosis, smoking, medications and extensive activity can increase the recovery time of a spinal fusion and may even prevent the fusion from holding.
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