Spinal Fusion (2010)

Summary

Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure that connects two or more vertebrae to stabilize the spine and alleviate pain. This operation is recommended for conditions like fractured vertebrae, spondylosis, and herniated discs. Performed under general anesthesia, the process involves removing intervertebral discs and inserting a bone graft, which may come from the patient or a donor. Surgeons can opt for traditional or minimally invasive techniques. Post-surgery, patients are monitored for pain management and recovery. The goal of spinal fusion is to eliminate movement between affected vertebrae, enhancing stability and reducing discomfort.

Takeaways

• 🦴 Spinal fusion involves joining two or more vertebrae using surgical hardware and bone graft material.
• 💡 The spine is composed of interconnected vertebrae, allowing for flexibility and movement.
• 🔍 Conditions such as fractured vertebrae, excessive motion, and spondylolisthesis may necessitate spinal fusion.
• 🩺 Spinal fusion aims to stabilize the spine, eliminating movement between affected vertebrae to reduce pain.
• 🛌 The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, with patients typically unconscious during the surgery.
• ⚙️ Surgical techniques may vary; an open procedure may involve incisions on the lumbar or cervical spine.
• 🔧 Laparoscopic spinal fusion is a less invasive option, utilizing small keyhole incisions and specialized instruments.
• 🩹 Bone grafts may be harvested from the patient's hip or sourced from a donor prior to the procedure.
• 🔒 Post-surgery, patients may experience pain and will be provided with medication to manage discomfort.
• 🏥 Recovery includes monitoring in a recovery area, with possible drainage and catheter placement for urine management.

Q & A

What is spinal fusion?

Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure that connects two or more vertebrae together using surgical hardware and bone graft material.

What are the main components of the spine involved in spinal fusion?

The spine consists of a series of interconnected bones called vertebrae, intervertebral discs that act as shock absorbers, and facet joints that allow movement between the vertebrae.

What conditions might necessitate a spinal fusion?

Conditions that may require spinal fusion include fractured vertebrae, excessive motion between vertebrae causing instability and pain, spondylosis, spondylolisthesis, osteoarthritis of facet joints, spinal deformities, and bulging or herniated discs.

How does spinal fusion help alleviate pain?

Spinal fusion eliminates movement between affected vertebrae, which stabilizes the spine and decreases pain.

What steps are taken to prepare a patient for spinal fusion surgery?

Preparation includes starting an intravenous line, possibly placing a catheter in the bladder, and administering general anesthesia.

What is the difference between open and laparoscopic spinal fusion?

In open spinal fusion, a larger incision is made over the spine, while laparoscopic spinal fusion involves several tiny keyhole incisions to perform the procedure with specialized instruments.

What happens during the actual fusion process?

The surgeon removes the intervertebral disc between two vertebrae, inserts a bone graft into the space, and may place a plate and screws to hold the vertebrae together until they fuse.

What post-operative care is provided after spinal fusion?

Post-operative care includes monitoring in a recovery area, keeping a bladder catheter in place for a few days, providing IV fluids and nutrition, and administering pain medication to manage discomfort.

How long may a patient be unable to eat after spinal fusion surgery?

Patients may be unable to eat for a day or two after surgery, during which they will receive fluids and nutrition through an IV.

What are the potential complications of spinal fusion surgery?

Potential complications can include infection, blood clots, nerve damage, and failure of the fusion to heal properly.