PROCEDURES EXPLAINEDSpinal Fusion
Spinal surgery is a procedure performed to fuse two vertebrae into a single structure. Spinal fusion is typically performed for spinal weakness, to correct deformity, or following the removal of a diseased intervertebral disc. The procedure restores stability to the spinal column at the expense of some mobility. Metal hardware may be used to stabilize the vertebrae while they heal.
What to Expect
- You will have an IV placed in your arm or hand for the delivery of anesthetic to put you into a deep sleep and prevent pain during your surgery.
- Your surgical team will usually consist of a vascular surgeon as well as an orthopedic or neurosurgeon.
- Several techniques may be used, depending on the location of fusion, the reason for fusion, and in some instances, your general condition.
- To gain access to the surgical site, the surgeon will make an incision relative to the site where the operation will take place. This may be in your neck or back over the spine, on either side of the spine if operating from the back, or in the abdomen or throat to access the spine from the front.
- Structures obstructing the site of operation will then be moved out of the way. Depending on the angle of access, this may be muscle, connective tissue, or blood vessels and organs.
- Once access is achieved, the diseased disc or discs are removed, and the area prepped for grafting.
- The bone graft is then prepared, which may come from a bone bank, or from another location in your own body, typically the pelvis. In the latter case, the surgeon will make a small incision above the pelvis to retrieve a small portion of bone before then closing the incision. In some cases, synthetic material may be used in place of a graft which is formulated specially to promote bone growth and speed up the fusion process.
- Permanent fusion of the vertebrae is then initiated by placing the graft material between the vertebrae, and securing them with hardware such as plates, screws, and rods.
- After the procedure is complete, the surgeon will restore all structures that were moved for the operation back to their normal locations.
- The incision is then closed, and steri-strips may be placed to facilitate healing.
- You will then be taken to a recovery area for close monitoring until you awaken. You will still have your IV, and may have a catheter to help facilitate urination while you recover. You may also have a sore throat from intubation. When you are fully alert and awake, you will then be returned to your hospital room.
Experiencing Symptoms of Spinal Fusion?
Common Risks and/or Frequently Asked Questions
Bleeding
Blood clots
Nerve damage
Return of symptoms
Infection
Post Procedural Instructions
- Activity Restriction
- Pain Management
- Incision Care
- Call if
- Desk jobs may be returned to in about 2 weeks, but others may require 4 weeks or more
- Do not drive or operate heavy machinery while taking narcotics
- Do not try to lift more than 10 pounds
- Do not smoke
- Walk as often as is comfortable on non-slippery surfaces
- Be mindful of body motion practices, as discussed with your physical therapist
- Post-procedural pain may last days to weeks as the inflammation subsides
- Do NOT take NSAIDs in the first few months following surgery, as they can interfere with the bone healing process
- Take your prescribed pain medication as recommended, and inform your care team if relief is inadequate. It is normal to feel some degree of pain during the recovery process, but it should not be excruciating.
- Unless otherwise stated, your incisions are most likely sutured from the inside.
- Dressings may be removed about 48 hours after surgery, and incisions should be washed with soap and water
- Do NOT soak the incision site, baths, hot tubs, and pools should be avoided for 2-3 weeks until the wounds have fully healed
- Sunblock with SPF 30 or greater may be used to protect healing skin from discoloration, as new skin will lack the sun protectant pigment melanin
- Fever of 101.5 F or greater
- Redness, swelling, warmth around the incision site
- New neurological symptoms, such as weakness or loss of sensation that was not present before
- Loss of bowel or bladder control that is new
- Severe Pain
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
- Severe Headaches
- Calf Swelling, as this may be a sign of thrombosis
- Chest pain, difficulty breathing, or cough
Common
Recovery Timeline
Spinal fusion typically requires a hospital stay of two to three days, depending on the location and degree of surgery. Discomfort and pain are normal following surgery, but are usually well managed with medication. Full recovery will take several months for the bones to fully heal and fuse together. A brace may be necessary to ensure correct spinal alignment. Physical therapy will teach methods of sitting, standing, and walking to maintain good spinal alignment.
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