The word “fusion” sounds so scientific, doesn’t it? The dictionary defines “fusion” as the merging of different elements into a union. When the word “fusion” walks side-by-side with the word “spinal,” we have a unique medical procedure designed to alleviate spinal pain and other back problems many people regularly experience.
Everyone is born with joints that are brand new, lacking in the daily wear and tear that, over time, can lead to joint pain. The spine is no stranger to such pain, particularly pain associated with movement. When non-surgical options fail to respond in a positive manner, patients may want to consider certain surgical procedures that may serve to eliminate their consistent pain.
The Web site for the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, www.orthoinfo.aaos.org , describes spinal fusion as “a surgical procedure used to correct problems with the bones (vertebrae) of the back (spine). The spine is stabilized by fusing together two or more vertebrae, using bone grafts and metal rods and screws.”
For what reasons would one consider speaking to his or her physician about spinal fusion surgery? This procedure is used to treat injuries to the vertebrae in the spine. It can be used to stop abnormal spine curvature, resulting from scoliosis or kyphosis. It is also used to address any protrusions or degenerations of the cushioning disc that sits between the vertebrae. Finally, if one’s spine has been weakened or made unstable due to an infection or a tumor, spinal fusion may be an option.
What this procedure essentially does is eliminate the motion between the vertebral segments, which are typically the area of pain in some patients. This procedure can also stop the progression of a spinal deformity, such as scoliosis. While most spinal fusion procedures will reduce some flexibility in the spine, most only involve small segments of and do not limit motion to a great extent.
According to the AAOS web site, bone grafting is the most commonly used material to promote the fusion of the vertebrae. Surgeons will typically use smaller bone pieces placed into the space between the vertebrae to be fused. At other times, larger bone pieces are employed to give immediate structural support. The bone used is either supplied by the actual patient or obtained (harvested) from other individuals.
When the patient actually supplies his or her own bone for this procedure (autogenous bone), it requires additional surgery to remove the bone from the patient’s hip. Bones used from other sources (allograft bone) are readily available from bone banks. While bone-graft substitutes are being developed, they have yet to prove themselves as cost-effective substitutes for the patient actually supplying his or her own bone pieces.
After the bone grafting is done, the vertebrae are held together to allow for the fusion to take place. Metal rods and screws are used to keep the bones immobile. The patient may also have to wear external bracing or casting to aid in this procedure.
How do you know if spinal fusion is an option for you? If you suffer from persistent back pain or any pain in your thigh, buttock or leg that does not respond to conservative measures, you may want to speak with your physician who can then refer you to a qualified surgeon to obtain a thorough evaluation. Also, if you are experiencing any numbness or tingling in your leg or have unusual weakness that is not alleviated with non-invasive means, please consult your physician to discuss your surgical options.