Glossary term · Treatment
Spinal fusion (also: Spinal arthrodesis, Spondylodesis): Spinal fusion is surgery that permanently joins two or more vertebrae using bone graft, often with rods, screws or cages, to stop movement between them.
Spinal fusion is surgery that permanently joins two or more bones of the spine so they no longer move against each other. MedlinePlus explains that the surgeon places bone graft between or over the vertebrae, often fixed with rods, screws, plates or cages while the graft heals. It is often done together with other spine surgery.
Why is spinal fusion done?
MedlinePlus lists reasons including spinal fractures, instability from infection or tumours, spondylolisthesis (a vertebra slipping forward), abnormal curves such as scoliosis or kyphosis and spinal arthritis. It is often done alongside decompression surgery for spinal stenosis.
Where does the bone graft come from?
- Your own bone, usually from around the pelvis (autograft).
- Donor bone from a bone bank (allograft).
- Synthetic bone substitutes and growth factors.
What are the risks?
MedlinePlus lists wound or bone infection, nerve damage causing weakness, pain, numbness or bowel or bladder problems, spinal fluid leakage and headaches. Extra wear on the vertebrae above and below the fusion can cause problems later. It also notes that surgery may not fully relieve pain.
What should travelling patients plan for?
- Send recent MRI and X-ray images in DICOM format, not just reports.
- Ask whether a brace will be needed and whether it is fitted before discharge.
- Learn the log-roll technique for getting out of bed, which MedlinePlus describes.
- Ask how pain will be controlled on the journey home.
- Ask your surgeon to confirm in writing when you can fly and what seat or support to request.
Your spine surgeon decides whether fusion is needed and which levels to fuse.
Questions people ask
Is spinal fusion the only option for back pain?
No. Many causes of back pain are managed without fusion. MedlinePlus lists specific conditions where fusion may be recommended. A second opinion on your images can help confirm whether surgery is needed.
Will a fused spine limit my movement?
The fused levels no longer move against each other. How much this affects everyday movement depends on how many levels are fused and where. Your surgeon can explain this for your case.
Sources
General information, not medical or legal advice. Rules change: confirm with the official source. Your treating specialist decides on suitability, treatment and length of stay. How we write and check.