Spinal fusion is used to permanently connect two or more vertebrae to stop pain from vertebral injuries, disk degeneration, infection, scoliosis or tumors. This type of surgery is used when back pain does not respond to more conservative, non-surgical treatment and is usually only recommended after other types of therapies are unsuccessful.
Before Surgery
Your doctor will request that you undergo several types of tests before proceeding with a spinal fusion. X-rays, computerized tomography (CAT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans may be used to evaluate the condition of your spine. A myelogram can be helpful if your doctor suspects that your problem originates in a disk between the vertebrae. During a myelogram, dye is injected into the disk, allowing it to be viewed on an X-ray. You may experience pain in the disk during this procedure, which can help your doctor confirm that the disk is causing your back problems.
The Fusion Procedure
The goal of spinal fusion is to eliminate movement between two vertebrae, reducing or eliminating pain. Fusion is performed by placing a bone graft in the space between the vertebrae. Bone for the graft can be supplied by the patient or a donor. If bone is supplied from the patient, it is usually taken from the hip. Once the bone is in place, metal rods and screws are put in place to allow the area to fuse. In some cases, casts or braces are needed to keep the area immobile during fusion. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, spinal fusion reduces spinal flexibility, but most patients won't experience a significant loss of motion because only a small segment of the spine is fused.
Recovery
You will probably experience pain for several days following your surgery and will require pain medication. Part of your recovery will involve learning sit, walk, stand and move while keeping your spine in alignment. When you leave the hospital, you will need to arrange for transportation that will allow you to lie down or lean back. Staying active is an important part of your recovery and your doctor will probably suggest that you begin improving your strength and stamina by walking. As you heal, you will be able to advance to other forms of exercise, such as using a treadmill or swimming.
Warning Signs
As with any type of surgery, there are risks associated with spinal fusion. You will need to be alert for the signs of infection or blood clots in the first weeks following your surgery. Pain in your calf, redness or tenderness below or above the knee and swelling in your ankle, foot or calf can indicate the possibility of a blood clot. If your wound becomes infected, you may notice that it is red, tender and somewhat swollen. Pus may start to drain from the incision. You may experience a fever and chills. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to call your doctor immediately or go to the emergency room.
Long Term Results
Depending on the severity of your problem, you may not be completely pain-free after you heal from your surgery, although you will probably experience a significant reduction in pain. The areas of your spine immediately above and below the fusion will experience more stress as a result of the fusion and it is possible that you may need another procedure in the coming years due to the additional stress on your spine.
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