What is Spinal Fusion?
Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure that permanently connects two or more vertebrae in your spine to eliminate painful motion between them. By fusing the vertebrae together, the procedure creates a single, solid bone that provides stability and reduces pain.
During the procedure, bone graft material is placed between the vertebrae. Over time (typically 3-6 months), this graft grows and fuses the bones together. Metal rods, screws, or plates may be used to hold the vertebrae in place while the fusion heals.
Dr. Rastegar specializes in minimally invasive spinal fusion techniques, which use smaller incisions, cause less muscle damage, and result in faster recovery compared to traditional open fusion surgery.
When is Spinal Fusion Recommended?
Spinal fusion may be recommended for conditions that cause instability or painful motion in the spine:
- Degenerative disc disease causing chronic pain
- Spondylolisthesis (vertebral slippage)
- Spinal stenosis with instability
- Spinal fractures
- Scoliosis or other spinal deformities
- Recurrent disc herniation
Types of Spinal Fusion
Lumbar Fusion (Lower Back)
Most commonly performed fusion, addressing conditions in the lower back.
- • TLIF (Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion)
- • PLIF (Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion)
- • ALIF (Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion)
Cervical Fusion (Neck)
Fusion of vertebrae in the neck region.
- • ACDF (Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion)
- • Posterior cervical fusion
Recovery & Expected Results
Hospital Stay
- Most patients stay 1-2 nights in the hospital
- Walking begins the day of or day after surgery
First 6 Weeks
- Gradual increase in walking and light activities
- Avoid bending, lifting, and twisting
- Physical therapy may begin
3-6 Months: Fusion Process
- Bone graft gradually fuses the vertebrae together
- Progressive return to normal activities
- Follow-up X-rays to monitor fusion progress
6-12 Months: Full Recovery
- Solid fusion typically achieved
- Return to full activities including sports and heavy labor (if approved)
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I lose flexibility after spinal fusion?
You will lose some motion at the fused segment, but most people don't notice significant limitations in daily activities. The remaining mobile segments compensate for the fused area. Dr. Rastegar fuses only the minimum number of levels necessary.
What type of bone graft is used?
Dr. Rastegar may use your own bone (autograft), donor bone (allograft), or synthetic bone graft substitutes. Each has advantages, and the choice depends on your specific case. He'll discuss options during your consultation.
How successful is spinal fusion?
Spinal fusion has a success rate of 70-90% for achieving solid fusion and significant pain relief. Success depends on many factors including the underlying condition, number of levels fused, and patient compliance with post-operative care.
Will the hardware need to be removed?
No. The screws, rods, and plates are designed to stay in place permanently. Once the fusion is solid, the hardware has done its job but is left in place as removal would require another surgery without benefit.
What is adjacent segment disease?
Adjacent segment disease refers to degeneration that can occur at the levels above or below a fusion. While this can happen, most patients never experience problems. Minimizing the number of fused levels and maintaining good spine health can reduce this risk.
Related Conditions
Success Rate
70-90%
Of patients achieve solid fusion and significant pain relief