Reasons for Spinal Fusion
If movement occurs between vertebrae, a spinal fusion may provide an answer that permanently joins the vertebrae and attempts to reduce pain that originates from the problematic discs. Although spinal fusions are normally performed for injuries in the lumbar spine, they are also used to treat cervical and thoracic problems if a patient has not responded well to more conservative treatments.There are various reasons to have a spinal fusion, such as a fractured or compressed vertebra or disc herniation.
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What Is a Spinal Fusion?
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A spinal fusion is a technique where one or more vertebrae of the spine are joined by using bone from a donor or from the patient's hip and fusing it together via a plate or screws.
Fractures and Herniation
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When a vertebra is fractured, it may compress the nerves and cause pain in the back. In the case of a herniation, the disc may press on nerves or the spinal cord and cause pain. Surgery attempts to decompress the nerves and relieve the pressure put on the spine and back.
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Spinal Deformities
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Spinal deformities may be treated with a spinal fusion in order to correct the spinal curve and reduce complications. Spinal fusion may fix a crooked spine if a patient has scoliosis, or it may help straighten a curved spine (kyphosis), which often causes a rounded back. Although the spine varies in shape and size, there is a healthy curve to the spine. However, if it becomes too large, the curve may become too pronounced.
Spinal Degeneration
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Degenerative disc diseases, tumors and other degenerative spinal conditions or problems that create instability of the spine are all reasons that a spinal fusion might be considered. A degenerating spine starts to wear down and the body is not able to lubricate the joints, which become worn down. Muscle strength is often decreased, and patients often suffer from inflammation. Spinal degeneration causes severe pain, often reduces the ability for physical activity and increases the risk of strain and injury. Such diseases might include arthritis, osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis, such as narrowing of the spinal canal, and osteoporosis.
Increasing Spinal Stability
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The primary reason that a spinal fusion is used is to decrease instability and nerve compression in an area. The surgery is meant to reduce motion between the vertebrae and to reduce pain. Oftentimes, there is instability that a spinal fusion can reduce. By stabilizing the vertebrae, spinal fusion can eliminate the movement of the discs.
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