Spinal Fusion Surgery
Introduction
Spinal problems are known to cause extreme pain, limiting mobility and overall quality of life. Spinal Fusion Surgery is a medical procedure that is designed to stabilize the spine by fusing two or more vertebrae. This article discusses Vertebral fusion, including its types, procedure, benefits, risks, costs, and recovery.
What is Spinal Fusion Surgery?
Surgeons perform spinal fusion to join together two or more vertebrae in the spinal column to end their motion against one another. Typically, they undertake the process as a remedy for chronic backache, correcting curvature of the spinal column, and stabilizing an injured spine.
The surgical technique involves connecting affected vertebrae with the aid of bone grafts, metal plates, screws, or rods. Eventually, the bones merge, stabilizing the structure while reducing the sensation of pain.
Why is Spinal Fusion Surgery Required?
Doctors prescribe Spinal Fusion Surgery for these conditions:
- Degenerative disc disease, which causes chronic backache
- Spinal fractures or instability due to trauma
- Scoliosis or spinal deformity
- Herniated discs, which compress the nerves
- Spinal stenosis, resulting in nerve aches and weakness
- Spondylolisthesis, where a vertebra slides over another one
If nothing else works—medication, physiotherapy, and injections—there is Cervical fusion.
Types of Spinal Fusion Surgery
There are different types of Spinal Fusion procedures depending on the location and technique applied:
- Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF): The front of the body is used to remove damaged discs and insert a bone graft.
- Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF): Accessing the spine from the back to remove discs and stabilize the vertebrae.
- Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF): A modified approach from the side of the spine.
- Cervical Spinal Fusion: Done on the neck to treat conditions such as herniated discs and spinal instability.
- Minimally Invasive Spinal Fusion: It uses small incisions and advanced techniques to reduce recovery time.
Procedure Steps
Spinal Fusion Surgery is done under general anesthesia and includes the following steps:
An incision is made on the back, abdomen, or side, depending on the type of fusion.
- Bone preparation: The surgeon extracts damaged disc material between the vertebrae.
- Bone graft placement: A bone graft, either taken from the patient or a donor, or a synthetic graft, is placed between the vertebrae.
- Insertion of implant: Metal rods, screws, or plates are inserted to hold the spine in place.
- Wound closure: The wound is closed with sutures and a bandage applied.
The surgery normally lasts 2-6 hours, and the duration of hospital stay depends on the complexity, which ranges from 2 to 5 days.
Benefits of Spinal Fusion Surgery
- Pain relief
- Improved mobility
- Spinal deformities correction
- Prevention of further damage to the spine
- Ability to do more daily activities
- Long-term structural improvement of the spine
Cost of Spinal Fusion Surgery
- India: $6,000 – $9,000
- USA: $50,000 – $90,000
- UK: $40,000 – $70,000
- Thailand: $10,000 – $15,000
- Singapore: $15,000 – $25,000
Type of fusion surgery done
- Choice of implants and bone grafts
- Hospital charges and surgeon fees
- Post-operative rehabilitation and Physiotherapy
Best Hospitals in India for Spinal Fusion Surgery
Some of the best private hospitals in India that offer Spinal Fusion Surgery are:
- Metro Hospital Faridabad
- Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi
- Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon
- Max Super Specialty Hospital, New Delhi
Complications and Risks
Spinal Fusion Surgery is done safely; however, there are risks involved:
- Infection at the surgical site
- Blood clots or excessive bleeding
- Nerve damage leading to weakness or numbness
- Failure of bone fusion, requiring additional surgery
- Limited range of motion in the fused section of the spine
- Chronic pain or discomfort after surgery
Risks and Complications
Recovery after Spinal arthrodesis may take 3-6 months. Complete recovery takes up to a year. Key recovery tips include:
- Avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous activities for at least 3 months
- Physiotherapy to regain strength and flexibility
- Use of assistive devices such as a back brace if advised
- A healthy diet rich in calcium and protein for bone healing
- Medications prescribed for pain management
Mostly, patients experience relief from pain within a few weeks; however, the complete progression of mobility improvement takes several months.
