Understanding Spinal Fusion Surgery
Spinal fusion surgery is a common procedure used to treat a variety of spinal conditions that cause pain, instability, or deformity. This procedure involves the permanent joining of two or more vertebrae in your spine, eliminating motion between them. The goal is to reduce pain and restore stability to the spine.
Conditions Treated by Spinal Fusion
Spinal fusion can be an effective treatment for several spinal conditions, including:
Degenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative disc disease occurs when the discs that cushion the vertebrae begin to wear out, leading to pain and discomfort. Spinal fusion surgery can help stabilize the spine and relieve pain by fusing the affected vertebrae.
Herniated Disc
A herniated disc happens when the soft center of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior casing. This can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms or legs. Fusion surgery may be recommended if conservative treatments don’t provide relief.
Scoliosis
Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves abnormally to the side. In severe cases, spinal fusion surgery can help correct the curvature and stabilize the spine.
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis involves the narrowing of the spaces within your spine, which can put pressure on the nerves that travel through the spine. Fusion surgery is often used to treat this condition when other treatments fail to relieve symptoms.
The Procedure
During spinal fusion surgery, Dr. Charla Fischer will join two or more vertebrae together using bone grafts, metal rods, screws, or cages. This procedure aims to create a solid, stable section of the spine. The surgery typically involves the following steps:
- Removing the damaged disc or bone causing the pain
- Placing a bone graft or synthetic bone material between the vertebrae
- Using metal plates, screws, or rods to hold the vertebrae together while the bone heals
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery from spinal fusion surgery can take several months. Initially, you may need to wear a brace to support your spine as it heals. Physical therapy is also a crucial part of recovery, helping to restore strength and flexibility to the affected area.
Risks and Considerations
As with any surgery, spinal fusion carries some risks, including infection, blood clots, and nerve damage. It’s essential to discuss these risks with Dr. Fischer before deciding on the surgery.
Is Spinal Fusion Right for You?
Spinal fusion surgery can be life-changing for many patients, offering relief from chronic pain and improving quality of life. However, it’s not suitable for everyone. Dr. Fischer will carefully evaluate your condition and medical history to determine if spinal fusion is the best option for you.
Conclusion
If you’re experiencing severe spinal pain due to degenerative disc disease, a herniated disc, scoliosis, or spinal stenosis, spinal fusion surgery might be an option to consider. Contact Dr. Fischer today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.