Spinal Fusion at Raleigh Orthopedic
What is Spinal Fusion?
Spinal fusion is a type of back surgery that permanently joins two or more bones in the spine, called vertebrae, so they can’t move against each other. This helps reduce pain and stabilize the spine, especially for people with injuries, spine conditions, or arthritis. During the procedure, a surgeon places bone material or a special bone-like substance between the vertebrae. To keep them in place while they heal, metal plates, screws, or rods are often used. Over time, the bones fuse, forming a single, solid structure.
Spinal fusion is often performed alongside other back surgeries, such as laminectomy (removing a small part of a vertebra to relieve nerve pressure) or diskectomy (removing a damaged spinal disc to reduce pain). By preventing unnecessary movement between vertebrae, spinal fusion helps relieve chronic pain and improve stability. If you are considering spinal fusion, Raleigh Orthopedic Surgery Center provides expert care using advanced techniques to help restore comfort and mobility. Learn more about spinal fusion at Raleigh Orthopaedic below.
When is Spinal Fusion Needed?
Spinal fusion is commonly performed to treat severe spinal pain, back pain, and spinal instability. At Raleigh Orthopedic Surgery Center, our specialists create customized treatment plans for each patient, striving to utilize non-surgical treatment methods whenever possible. Spinal fusion is normally recommended when other non-surgical treatments, such as pain relief medication and physical therapy, are unsuccessful. This procedure is commonly recommended for patients with:
- Spinal fractures: a break or crack in one of the bones (vertebrae) of the spine
- Spondylolisthesis: when one bone in the spine slips over another
- Scoliosis: sideways spine curvature
- Kyphosis: a hunched back
- Spinal stenosis: narrowing of the spinal spaces that press on nerves
- Lower back pain: caused by injuries, infection, or tumors
What are the Benefits of Spinal Fusion?
Spinal fusion is often used as the next option after non-surgical treatments. While spinal fusion does usually require general anesthesia and might require a hospital stay, it can effectively relieve symptoms that severely limit a patient’s ability to go about their daily life. Other benefits of spinal fusion in Wake County include:
- Relief of severe pain: Spinal fusion reduces pressure on the spinal cord, treating nerve pain that cannot be relieved via other methods.
- Improved stability: A wobbly or unstable spine can impose pressure on the back muscles, causing severe back pain and weakness.
- Improved mobility: Spinal fusion “fuses” two pieces of spinal bone together, improves mobility by reducing pain and prevents vertebrae from slipping.
- Improved quality of life: Improved posture not only affects confidence but also helps with other symptoms caused by scoliosis and spondylolisthesis.
Spinal Fusion at Raleigh Orthopaedic Surgery Center
At Raleigh Orthopedic Surgery Centers, patients receive top-tier care in a cutting-edge facility designed to support patient comfort and confidence. Our expert orthopedic surgeons take a personalized approach, guiding each patient through every step of their journey – from their initial appointment to recovery and beyond. With a focus on comprehensive treatment and lasting results, we’re dedicated to helping you move better and live pain-free. Here’s what you can expect from the spinal fusion process at Raleigh Orthopaedic.
Successful spinal fusion surgery begins with proper preparation. At Raleigh Orthopaedic, we take the time needed to explain the procedure, answer your questions, and address any concerns you may have, while also providing detailed preparation instructions. Before undergoing spinal fusion, you’ll meet with your surgeon to discuss:
- Medical History and Lab Results: Your surgeon will complete a physical examination to assess your overall health and ensure that surgery is suitable for you.
- Medication Review: Inform your surgical team about all medications, supplements, and vitamins you regularly take. Your care team will let you know which medications may need to be stopped before your procedure.
- Support Planning: You may need to arrange for help at home, as you’ll have activity restrictions after surgery to support the healing process.
- Eating and Drinking: Your doctor will discuss fasting guidelines with you, which may include avoiding food and drinks at least six hours before your procedure.
The exact details of your surgical plan and process will depend on your medical history and the ultimate goal of your procedure. Spinal fusion can take up to five hours if there are other procedures being performed or multiple vertebrae that need to be fused. The general process for spinal fusion includes the following steps:
- Making the Incision: The surgeon will make an incision to reach the spine. The location of the incision depends on the condition being treated – it may be from the front (anterior), back (posterior), or side (lateral) of the body.
- Removing the Damaged Disc: If a spinal disc (the soft cushion between vertebrae) is damaged or worn out, the surgeon removes it. This helps relieve pressure on the nerves and prepares the space for fusion.
- Placing the Bone Graft: To help the vertebrae fuse, a bone graft is placed in the space where the disc was removed. This graft may come from the patient’s own body (autograft), a donor (allograft), or be made from synthetic materials. The bone graft acts as a foundation for new bone growth.
- Stabilizing with Implants: To keep the vertebrae in place while they heal, the surgeon may use metal screws, rods, or plates. These implants provide immediate support and help prevent movement as the bones fuse.
- Fusion and Healing: Over the next several months, the bone graft stimulates new bone growth, allowing the vertebrae to fuse into a single, solid structure. This process eliminates movement between the treated vertebrae, stabilizing the spine and reducing pain.
After surgery, patients will be monitored in a recovery room. Those who received general anesthesia and require a hospital stay can normally return home after 2 to 4 days. The general recovery process from spinal fusion includes:
- Early Movement: Most patients are encouraged to start walking the same day or the day after surgery. However, strenuous activities like bending, lifting, and twisting must be avoided for several weeks to months.
- Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation: Regaining strength and mobility is essential. A structured physical therapy program helps improve flexibility, posture, and overall movement while ensuring proper spinal alignment.
- Bone Fusion Process: The actual fusion takes time, as the bone graft gradually integrates with the surrounding vertebrae. This process typically lasts between three and twelve months.
- Resuming Daily Activities: Light tasks can usually be resumed within a few weeks, but returning to physically demanding activities may take several months. In some cases, patients must avoid putting excessive strain on their spine for up to a year to ensure complete healing.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Regular check-ins with your surgeon will be scheduled to ensure proper recovery.
How Long Does Recovery from Spinal Fusion Take?
Recovery time after spinal fusion surgery depends on several factors, including the patient’s overall health, the severity of their spine condition or injury, and the complexity of the procedure. Your surgeon will outline a personalized recovery plan, helping you understand when it’s safe to resume daily activities. In general, most patients can return to light activities within 2 to 4 weeks, but full recovery can take 3 to 6 months or longer.
- One to Three Weeks: return to normal light activities and avoid bending, lifting, and overusing the back muscles.
- Four to Six Weeks: Gradually increase non-strenuous activity intensity. Most daily activities can be resumed. The patient may be able to return to work depending on the nature of their job.
- Four to Six Months: You should see significant improvement in symptoms and can usually fully return to normal daily activities.
Orthopedic Surgeons at Raleigh Orthopaedic
At Raleigh Orthopedic Surgery Center, our board-certified surgeons bring extensive expertise in minimally invasive procedures, delivering top-tier care for a variety of orthopedic conditions. From chronic joint pain to sudden sports injuries, our specialists are committed to providing personalized treatment that promotes a quick recovery and lasting relief.
Outpatient Orthopedic Surgery in Wake County
Raleigh Orthopedic is a trusted leader in outpatient orthopedic care, serving patients throughout Wake County and beyond. Our state-of-the-art surgical centers in Panther Creek and Raleigh provide advanced care with a focus on patient comfort and satisfaction. From your initial consultation to your post-surgery recovery, we will prioritize your comfort and keep you informed every step of the way. If you’re struggling with back pain or considering a spinal fusion, reach out today to schedule an appointment. We want to help you regain mobility and improve your quality of life!