Spine fuse (more accurately, spinal fusion) is a surgical procedure that permanently joins two or more vertebrae (bones) in your spine together. This eliminates motion between them. A minimally invasive spinal fusion uses a smaller incision than traditional spinal fusion surgery.
Spinal fusion aims to:
- Reduce pain: By stopping movement between vertebrae, it can alleviate pain caused by conditions like arthritis or degenerative disc disease.
- Stabilize the spine: It can correct spinal instability caused by injury, infection, or tumors.
- Correct deformities: Spinal fusion can help correct spinal deformities like scoliosis.
How it Works:
During a spinal fusion, the surgeon places bone graft (either from your own body or a donor) between the vertebrae to be fused. Over time, this bone graft stimulates bone growth, eventually fusing the vertebrae together into a single, solid bone. Surgical hardware, such as screws, rods, and plates, may be used to hold the vertebrae together while the fusion heals.
Minimally Invasive vs. Traditional Spinal Fusion:
The main difference lies in the size of the incision. Minimally invasive surgery uses smaller incisions, leading to:
- Less tissue damage
- Shorter hospital stay
- Faster recovery time
- Less pain
Indications for Spinal Fusion:
Spinal fusion may be recommended for various spinal problems, including:
- Spondylolisthesis: When one vertebra slips forward over another.
- Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal, which can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
- Degenerative disc disease: Breakdown of the spinal discs, causing pain and instability.
- Scoliosis: Curvature of the spine.
- Vertebral fractures: Broken vertebrae.
- Tumors or infections: Affecting the spine.
Recovery:
Recovery time varies depending on the individual and the extent of the surgery. It typically takes several months for the fusion to fully heal. Physical therapy is often recommended to help regain strength and mobility.
In essence, spinal fusion is a procedure designed to eliminate movement between vertebrae, aiming to reduce pain, stabilize the spine, and correct deformities. It is important to discuss the potential benefits and risks with your doctor to determine if spinal fusion is the right treatment option for you.
