Spine Fusion Surgery

Spinal disorders and conditions that cause instability or severe pain often require surgical intervention to restore function and alleviate discomfort. One of the most effective and widely used surgical procedures for such cases is spine fusion surgery. This innovative procedure aims to fuse two or more vertebrae, stabilizing the spine and reducing pain. Through advancements in surgical techniques and instrumentation, spine fusion surgery has become a cornerstone of modern spinal care.

Key Diseases Treated By The Spine Fusion Surgery Department

• Degenerative Disc Disease: As intervertebral discs degenerate due to age or injury, they can cause instability and pain in the spine. Fusion surgery stabilizes these segments.
• Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. Fusion surgery may be performed alongside laminectomy (removal of part of the vertebra) to stabilize the spine.
• Spondylolisthesis: This condition occurs when one vertebra slips forward over another. Spinal fusion can stabilize the spine and prevent further slippage.
• Scoliosis or Kyphosis: These are curvature disorders of the spine. In severe cases, fusion surgery can help straighten and stabilize the spine.
• Herniated Disc: In cases where a herniated disc causes instability in the spine, fusion surgery may be recommended after disc removal.
• Fractured Vertebra: If a vertebral fracture leads to spinal instability, fusion can be used to stabilize the spine.
• Spinal Tumors: After the removal of a spinal tumor, fusion surgery might be necessary to maintain spinal stability.
• Spinal Infections or Tuberculosis: Infections can damage the spinal structure, requiring fusion for stability post-treatment.
• Chronic Low Back Pain: In select cases where prolonged conservative treatments have failed, and a specific source of pain is identified, spinal fusion might be considered.
• Posterior Rickets: This rare condition can affect the integrity and alignment of the spine, necessitating fusion for correction.

Key Procedures

• Posterolateral Fusion: The most common type of spinal fusion, it involves placing bone graft material between the transverse processes (the small bony projections on the sides of each vertebra) in the back of the spine. Rods and screws are often used to hold the vertebrae together while the bone graft heals and fuses.
• Interbody Fusion: This involves removing the intervertebral disc between two vertebrae and replacing it with a bone graft or a spacer (made of bone, metal, or synthetic material). The types of interbody fusion include anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF), posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF), transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF), and lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) or extreme lateral interbody fusion (XLIF).
• Anterior Fusion: The surgery is approached from the front of the spine, often used in cervical or lumbar spine fusion. This approach may reduce the risk of damaging the spinal muscles and nerves.
• Minimally Invasive Spinal Fusion: Uses smaller incisions and causes less muscle and tissue damage than traditional open surgery. It often involves the use of advanced imaging techniques and specialized instruments.
• 360-Degree (Circumferential) Fusion: A combination of both anterior and posterior approaches to spinal fusion, offering a higher rate of successful fusion.
• Cervical Spinal Fusion: Performed on the neck region for conditions such as cervical disc herniations or fractures. It can be done via an anterior or posterior approach.
• Thoracic Spinal Fusion: Less common than cervical or lumbar fusion, it’s performed on the middle part of the spine for conditions like scoliosis or spinal fractures.
• Lumbar Spinal Fusion: Aimed at the lower back, it’s used for conditions such as spondylolisthesis or degenerative disc disease.

Advantages Of The Department

• Expertise and Specialization: The department is staffed with surgeons who specialize in spinal fusion, ensuring that patients receive care from experts who are knowledgeable about the latest techniques and best practices in this field.
• Advanced Surgical Techniques: The department typically employs the latest surgical techniques, including minimally invasive procedures, which can lead to better outcomes, reduced postoperative pain, and quicker recovery times.
• Comprehensive Care: From pre-operative evaluation to post-operative rehabilitation, the department provides comprehensive care. This includes managing pre-existing conditions that might impact surgery, as well as providing thorough follow-up care to monitor recovery and address any complications.
• Improved Quality of Life: By stabilizing the spine and alleviating pain, spinal fusion surgery can significantly improve patients' quality of life, allowing them to return to daily activities and improve their overall well-being.
• Innovative Technologies: Spinal fusion departments often have access to advanced technologies, such as 3D imaging and navigation systems, which improve the precision of surgical procedures.
• Reduced Pain and Disability: For many patients, spinal fusion can effectively reduce or eliminate chronic back pain and disability caused by various spinal conditions.

011-42888888 to book an appointment with a specialist at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute.