Dr. Charla Fischer has had extensive experience performing spinal fusions, so if it turns out that you need this procedure done, you’re in the best hands.
But you might wonder which conditions spinal fusion can correct and if spinal fusion could solve a problematic condition you’re experiencing.
What Does Spinal Fusion Involve?
Spinal fusion is a procedure that requires preciseness, dexterity, and expertise from your surgeon, and fortunately, Dr. Fischer has the foresight, skills, and prudent judgment to excel and create successful outcomes for patients.
To fuse your affected vertebrae, Dr. Fischer must apply a bone graft and use metal rods, plates, and screws to keep the bones still while they come together over time. The job of the graft material is to stimulate the bones to grow toward each other and together.
Bone Graft Options
There’s more than one way for Dr. Fischer to obtain your bone graft material:
- Fusion cage: Contains biocompatible material that encourages bone growth
- Bone bank graft: Harvested bone from a certified bone bank
- Autograft: Using a bit of your own hip bone to start the fusion process
Dr. Fischer performs a minimally invasive spinal fusion whenever possible since these procedures require just a few small incisions and are associated with faster healing and reduced pain, bleeding, and scarring.
Advanced Spinal Fusion Techniques
Dr. Fischer utilizes the latest surgical techniques and technologies to ensure optimal outcomes:
Minimally Invasive Approaches
- Minimally Invasive TLIF (Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion)
- Traditional TLIF procedures
- ALIF (Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion)
- ACDF (Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion)
Advanced Technology Integration: Dr. Fischer incorporates cutting-edge technologies including robotic-assisted spine surgery and navigation-assisted surgery for enhanced precision and improved patient outcomes.
What Conditions Can Spinal Fusion Address?
Spinal fusion can address a wide range of painful spinal conditions. Dr. Fischer commonly treats:
Degenerative Conditions
- Degenerative disc disease, which causes pain, numbness, nerve compression, and mobility issues
- Spinal arthritis (osteoarthritis), which destroys cartilage and causes bones to rub together
- Spinal stenosis, when a narrowed spinal canal causes a range of painful symptoms
Structural Abnormalities
- Spondylolisthesis (slipped disc), when one vertebra slips forward over another
- Scoliosis and other spinal deformities
- Herniated discs, when the disc’s soft center pushes through the hard exterior
Other Serious Conditions
- Spinal infections that compromise structural integrity
- Spinal tumors requiring stabilization
- Bone spurs (bony growths) that typically irritate nerves and spinal cord
- Thickened ligaments caused by arthritis that bulge into the spinal canal
- Inflamed facet joints (spinal bones), which can cause pinched nerves
When Is Spinal Fusion Recommended?
Dr. Fischer typically considers spinal fusion when:
- Conservative treatments have not provided adequate relief
- Spinal instability is present
- Progressive neck pain or lower back pain significantly impacts quality of life
- Neurological symptoms worsen despite non-surgical treatment
Understanding the Risks and Benefits
Like any surgical procedure, spinal fusion comes with both potential benefits and risks. Dr. Fischer believes in thorough patient education and will discuss:
- Expected outcomes and success rates
- Potential complications and how they’re minimized
- Recovery timeline and expectations
- Alternative treatment options
Learn more about spinal fusion risks vs benefits to make an informed decision about your treatment.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Successful recovery from spinal fusion requires careful planning and adherence to post-operative guidelines:
Pre-Surgical Preparation
Dr. Fischer provides comprehensive pre-surgical guidance to optimize your readiness for surgery and recovery.
Post-Operative Care
- Post-operative care instructions
- Recovery optimization tips
- 20 easy things to do while recovering
- Specific spinal fusion recovery guidance
Why Choose Minimally Invasive Techniques?
Dr. Fischer’s expertise in minimally invasive spine surgery offers several advantages:
- Smaller incisions and reduced scarring
- Less muscle and tissue disruption
- Reduced blood loss during surgery
- Faster recovery times
- Lower risk of complications
- Shorter hospital stays
Alternative and Complementary Treatments
Before considering spinal fusion, Dr. Fischer may recommend:
- Non-surgical treatment options
- Epidural steroid injections
- Microdiscectomy for disc-related problems
- Laminectomy for decompression
- Artificial disc replacement as an alternative to fusion
Patient Success Stories
Dr. Fischer has helped countless patients regain their quality of life through successful spinal fusion procedures. Read about real patient experiences and outcomes in our patient testimonials section.
Don’t Accept Spinal Pain as Inevitable
Don’t accept spinal pain, tingling, and mobility problems as inevitable. If other treatments haven’t worked, have a conversation with Dr. Fischer about the stabilizing effects of spinal fusion so you can get real relief from debilitating spinal pain.
Expert Spinal Fusion Surgery in NYC
When choosing your spine surgeon, experience and specialization in minimally invasive techniques matter. Dr. Fischer is committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome.
Schedule your consultation today:
đź“ž (646) 501-7200
đź“Ť 333 East 38th Street, 6th Floor
New York, NY 10016
About Dr. Charla Fischer
Dr. Charla R. Fischer, MD, is a leading orthopedic spine surgeon in New York City, specializing in complex spinal fusion procedures and minimally invasive techniques. Her expertise encompasses the full range of spine conditions requiring fusion surgery.
Dr. Fischer is committed to utilizing the most advanced surgical techniques, including robotic-assisted and navigation-guided procedures, to ensure optimal patient outcomes. Her approach emphasizes patient education, comprehensive care, and individualized treatment plans.
Learn more about Dr. Fischer’s credentials and surgical expertise, or explore her media appearances and contributions to advancing spine surgery techniques.
Additional Spine Health Resources
Explore these additional resources for comprehensive spine health information: