Lumbar Fusion
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What is a Lumbar Fusion?
A lumbar fusion is a surgical procedure that joins 2 or more vertebrae together in the low back. The disc between the vertebrae is typically removed and an artificial spacer is places between the bones to maintain the space. The space allows the nerves coming out of the spine to move and function properly. A bone graft may be used as a spacer between the vertebrae.
Why Would I Need a Lumbar Fusion?
A lumbar fusion may be used to treat severe cases of:
- Lumbar spinal stenosis
- Instability (spondylolisthesis)
- Degenerative disc disease
- Lumbar radiculopathy
Types of Lumbar Spinal Fusion Surgery
- Posterior lumbar Interbody fusion
- Anterior lumbar interbody fusion
- Extreme lateral interbody fusion
- Minimally Invasive Lumbar Fusion (Mazor X Stealth Robotic Guidance Spinal Fusion)
What is the Success Rate of Spinal Fusion Surgery?
Studies on the success rate of spinal fusion surgery vary. The average is about 60 to 70% success rate for increased function. The vast majority of patients are pleased with the results after a fusion of the spine. Like any surgery, there is risk involved.
After a Lumbar Fusion, there is the possibility of issues developing at the spine level above or below the fusion. This is called Adjacent Segment Disease. The Adjacent Spine segments may be stressed more after a Fusion. This can lead to degeneration and issues at those spine levels.
What is the Recovery Time for Lumbar Fusion Surgery?
Lumbar Fusion surgery is a complicated procedure which requires time for healing. Most people take 3 to 6 months to recover. Complete healing can take up to a year.
Movement of the Low back is usually limited for the first 8 to 12 weeks to allow the fusion to heal and allow for bone growth of bone grafts and around the screw rivets.
What happens after Spinal Fusion Surgery?
A fusion surgery can take several hours. Most patients remain in the hospital over night. Physical therapy may have them walk in the hospital and make sure that they can get to the bathroom when they get home. Patients may receive home health nursing care as needed. Physical therapy is not usually ordered until 4 to 6 weeks after the surgery. This is usually outpatient physical therapy.
Occasionally, patients will wear a brace for a month or 2 after the lumbar fusion surgery. This may vary depending on the surgeon’s preference and the type of spinal fusion.
Tiger Woods is arguably the most famous athlete who has had a lumbar fusion. To learn more about Tiger Woods story, go to: rediscover by Centinel Spine.
Alternatives to Spinal Fusion
Spinal Fusion is only an option for most patients once all other conservative options have been tried. A Spinal fusion is invasive and involves risk. It is important to exhaust other treatment options first. Conservative treatment options may include:
- Physical Therapy.
- Massage Therapy.
- Laser Therapy.
- Acupuncture.
- Anti-inflammatory medications.
- Spinal injections.
- Discectomy.
Is Disc Replacement better than Fusion?
A Lumbar Disk Replacement is another option to repair a spine level which is severely degenerated or unstable. With a Disk Replacement procedure, the old disk is removed and an artificial disk is placed between the bodies on the Lumbar Vertebrae. Unlike with a fusion, motion is still available at the surgical site after the procedure. This may decrease the risk of adjacent segment issues.
Not all insurance companies authorize the disk replacement.
Can you Climb Stairs after Spinal Fusion?
Yes, you should be able to climb stairs after a spinal fusion, as long as there are not other issues limiting stair activity. It may be better to limit stairs for the first several weeks to avoid irritating the surgical site. Your back will be stiff and sore most morning following the surgery. It is especially important to do your exercises in the morning before strenuous activities.
Related Links:
If you have lumbar spine issue, the Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute can help. To see a JOI Orthopedic Spine Surgeon, call (904)JOI-2000, schedule online or click below. To see a JOI Rehab therapist in 1 of our 12 locations, call 904-858-7045.