 | Spinal Fusion |
What is spinal fusion?
Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure that is performed to permanently fuse or connect two or more vertebrae, which will result in eliminating spaces in-between them. Vertebrae are small, interlocking bones that make up the spinal column. During this procedure, a bone graft is used to fill the space between the two vertebrae.
When is spinal fusion needed?
Spinal fusion is normally recommended to treat or relieve symptoms of several spine problems. This procedure involves minimising mobility between the two affected vertebrae. Spinal fusion may lead to decreased flexibility, but is required to treat spinal disorders that make movement painful. are small, interlocking bones that make up the spinal column. During this procedure, a bone graft is used to fill the space between the two vertebrae.
These spinal disorders include:
- Tumours
- Spinal stenosis
- Herniated discs
- Degenerative disc disease
- Fractured vertebrae which may result in the spinal column being unstable
- The curvature of the spine
- Kyphosis also known as hunchback
- Spinal instability or weakness that may be caused by severe arthritis, tumours, or infections
- Spondylolisthesis, a condition where one vertebra slips onto the vertebra underneath it, which may cause severe pain
What does spinal fusion entail?
During the procedure, you will be under general anaesthesia. A bone graft from either a bone bank or from your own body, which is often cut from above the pelvic bone, will be prepared. The bone graft may also be synthetic.
Depending on the area being treated, the neurosurgeon will make an incision on either your neck, back (directly over the spine), or on either side of the spine. An incision may also be made on your abdomen or throat to access your spine. The bone graft will be placed in between the affected bones or vertebrae to join them. The neurosurgeon will then use plates, screws, and rods to secure the graft and keep the spine in place. This will then help the spine heal faster.
