Spinal fusion surgery is a medical procedure used to join two or more vertebrae in the spine to eliminate movement between them. This is often performed to reduce pain, stabilize the spine, or correct deformities caused by various conditions, such as degenerative disc disease, scoliosis, spinal fractures, or spinal stenosis. By fusing the vertebrae, the surgery aims to mimic the natural healing process of bones and create a solid bone where motion previously occurred.

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Why is Spinal Fusion Surgery Performed?

Spinal fusion is typically recommended for patients experiencing chronic back pain or neurological issues due to spinal instability or abnormal movement between vertebrae. The main reasons for undergoing spinal fusion surgery include:

1Degenerative Disc Disease:

As people age, the intervertebral discs (which act as cushions between the vertebrae) may degenerate, leading to pain and instability. Spinal fusion can stabilize the affected area.

2Scoliosis:

This abnormal curvature of the spine can cause pain and impair mobility. Fusion surgery helps to realign and stabilize the spine.

3Spinal Fractures:

Traumatic injuries or fractures in the spine may require fusion surgery to stabilize the vertebrae and promote healing.

4Herniated Disc:

Sometimes, if a disc herniation causes severe pain and non-surgical treatments fail, spinal fusion may be performed to remove the damaged disc and fuse the vertebrae.

5Spinal Stenosis:

This is a condition where the spinal canal narrows, compressing the nerves. Fusion can be used after decompression surgery to stabilize the spine.

The Procedure

Spinal fusion surgery can be performed in different ways, depending on the location and severity of the issue. Typically, the procedure involves:

Bone Grafting

The surgeon uses bone grafts (either from the patient's body, a donor, or synthetic materials) to promote bone growth between the vertebrae.

Hardware Placement

Metal rods, pedicle screws, or plates may be used to hold the vertebrae in place while the bone graft heals and fuses the vertebrae.

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Types of Approaches

The surgery can be performed through various approaches:

  • Anterior approach(ALIF): The surgeon accesses the spine from the front of the body, typically through the abdomen.
  • Posterior approach(PLIF): The surgeon accesses the spine from the back.
  • Lateral approach(LLIF): The spine is accessed from the side of the body.

The procedure can be open or minimally invasive (using smaller incisions and specialized tools), depending on the patient's condition and the surgeon's recommendation.

Recovery and Risks

Recovery from spinal fusion surgery can take several months, as it takes time for the vertebrae to fuse. During this time, patients may need physical therapy and should avoid activities that strain the spine. Common risks associated with spinal fusion surgery include:

  • Infection
  • Nerve damage
  • Blood clots
  • Failure of the vertebrae to fuse properly (nonunion)
  • Adjacent segment disease (where nearby vertebrae experience increased stress and degeneration)
Conclusion

Spinal fusion surgery effectively treats spinal pain and instability, improving patient quality of life.

As an OEM partner, YSF Medical manufactures precision spinal implants and components, including screws and bone graft substitutes. With strict quality control, we enable trusted brands to deliver safe and effective spinal solutions that enhance surgical outcomes and support patient recovery.

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