Otherwise known as spondylosyndesis, spinal fusion is a procedure that is recommended for patients suffering from severe and ongoing pain induced by abnormal movement of the vertebrae. The procedure attempts to address this movement by fusing together the affected vertebraic bones. There are two variants of the operation: posterolateral fusion and anterior interbody fusion.

There are a number of conditions for which patients might benefit from a spinal fusion, the most common including degenerative disc disease, vertebral fracture, scoliosis and kyphosis, spondylosis, spinal tumor and spinal disc herniation.

Procedure information
In a posterolateral fusion, the surgeon gains access to the vertebrae via an incision in the back. The surfaces of the transverse processes of the affected vertebrae are then roughened and bone grafts are placed in between. Screws and/or wires are then often used to immobilize the bones and grafts.

In an anterior interbody spinal fusion the surgeon accesses the vertebrae via an incision in the patient’s abdomen. The affected vertebrae are then stabilized using a cylindrical cage or femoral ring containing bone graft. This structure is placed between the vertebrae and in the event of a successful fusion, will prevent their abnormal movement.

In both cases, bone grafts are usually obtained from the hip of the patient. In the event that suitable bone is unavailable, allografts (bone obtained from a suitable donor) are used.

Recovery time
Modern spinal fusion methods can see the patient in and out of hospital in less than 48 hours. However, in hospitals that use older equipment a stay of up to five days might be necessary.

With both procedures, successful fusions of the bone grafts with the vertebrae can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months, during which time patients are required to avoid any activity likely to put heavy strain on the lower back.