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Spinal fusion - series

Normal anatomy

The vertebrae are the bones that make up the spinal column, which surrounds and protects the spinal cord. The intervertebral disks are soft tissues that sit between each vertebrae and act as cushions between vertebrae, and absorb energy while the spinal column flexes, extends, and twists. Nerves from the spinal cord exit the spinal column between each vertebra.

Indications

Spinal fusion is a surgical technique in which one or more vertebrae are fused together to stop the motion between them.

Spinal fusion may be recommended for:

• Abnormal curvature of the spine (scoliosis or kyphosis)
• Injury to the spinal vertebrae
• Protrusion of the cushioning disk between vertebrae (slipped disk, herniated nucleus pulposus)
• Weak or unstable spine caused by infections or tumors

Incision

Different incisions are made depending on the area to be treated. The approach can be made either from the front (anterior), from the back (posterior), or both.

Procedure: Posterolateral gutter fusion

In a posterolateral gutter fusion procedure, the spine is approached from the back. Bone graft is taken from the pelvis and laid out in the posterolateral portion of the spine that is to be fused. The back muscles hold the graft in place until it fuses with the vertebrae. A fusion will setup within three months and will continue to get stronger for one to two years.

Interbody cage fusion

Interbody cage fusion uses a hollow threaded titanium or carbon fiber cylinder to fuse two vertebrae together. The diseased disk is removed and two interbody cages are placed in the opening where the diseased disk has been removed. The cages are filled with bone graft. The bone grows through the holes in the cages fusing the vertebrae.

Pedicle screw

Pedicle screws are used sometimes in a spinal fusion to add extra support and strength to the fusion while it heals. Pedicle screws are placed above and below the vertebrae that were fused. A rod is used to connect the screws which prevents movement and allows the bone graft to heal. After the fusion is completely healed, the screws and rods can be removed. Removal isn't necessary unless they cause the patient discomfort.

Related Information

Review Date: 10/15/2023  

Reviewed By: C. Benjamin Ma, MD, Professor, Chief, Sports Medicine and Shoulder Service, UCSF Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, San Francisco, CA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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