Spine fusion is an orthopedic spine surgery performed to link together two vertebrae of the spine. This surgery is performed when there is some problem with the disc space where linking together two vertebrae helps in eliminating the source of back pain.

Your doctor will aim at stimulating bone growth between the vertebrae during spine fusion. The vertebrae link together when new bone starts forming and prevents future movement in between the fused vertebrae.

In some cases, your doctor may suggest spinal instrumentation where metal is placed within your bone to hold vertebral bones together. This will be decided by your surgeon based on various factors like the problem to be treated, the number of levels of spinal fusion, your age and other factors.

Some possible complications

Though there are some complications associated with this orthopedic spine surgery, spine fusion works well for most patients. One complication that may arise is a situation where the segments may not fuse. In some other cases, after the surgery, the vertebrae and the discs next to the surgery spot starts developing problems.

The other risks associated with spine fusion surgery are blood loss, infections and possibility of damage to the spinal cord. The possibility of any risks actually occurring during the surgery depends on the extent of the surgery and the type of surgery that is being performed. To ensure there is no risk on nerve functioning during or after the surgery, your doctor may also use special monitors to measure nerve functioning.

In most cases, patients improve after the surgery. However the extent of recovery depends on the amount of rest, the medication your doctor prescribes you, and of course, your own body. It is because of this that some people recover faster than others.

Smokers beware

However smokers should be aware of the fact that if they are to undergo spine fusion surgery, they have to stop smoking. This is because the risk of no new bone forming increases 500% in smokers as smoking itself impedes the formation of new bones, which is a very essential factor for the success of spine fusion surgery.
Dr Siddiqui is a leading Orthopedic Spine Surgeon in Houstonoffering spinal disorders treatmentfor both surgical and non-surgical treatment