Spinal Fusion Surgery

What is Spinal Fusion Surgery?

Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure that permanently connects two or more vertebrae to eliminate painful motion and stabilize the spine. As one of the most common spine surgeries, it's used to treat various conditions causing spinal instability or deformity.

What are the Key Benefits of Spinal Fusion Surgery?

Spinal fusion surgery offers several important advantages for patients with spinal instability, deformity, or chronic pain. Here are the top benefits:

• Eliminates painful motion between vertebrae
• Corrects spinal deformities (scoliosis, spondylolisthesis)
• Provides long-term stability
• 70-90% success rate for properly selected patients

When is Spinal Fusion Surgery Required?

Spinal fusion surgery is typically recommended when spinal instability, deformity, or nerve compression causes severe pain and doesn’t respond to conservative treatments. Here are the key conditions that may require fusion:

1. Spinal Instability
   • ✔ Spondylolisthesis (slipped vertebrae) – When a vertebra shifts out of place, pinching nerves.
   • ✔ Severe degenerative disc disease – If discs collapse, causing abnormal vertebral motion.
   • ✔ Post-fracture instability – After traumatic breaks (e.g., from accidents or osteoporosis).
2. Deformity Correction
   • ✔ Scoliosis/Kyphosis – For abnormal curvatures compressing nerves or causing imbalance.
   • ✔ Flatback syndrome – Loss of natural lumbar curve leading to chronic pain.
3. Nerve Compression Requiring Structural Support
   • ✔ Spinal stenosis with instability – When decompression alone would destabilize the spine.
   • ✔ Failed previous surgeries (e.g., recurrent disc herniations after discectomy).
4. Other Critical Cases
   • ✔ Spinal infections/tumors – If vertebrae are damaged and need reconstruction.
   • ✔ Advanced arthritis – When facet joint degeneration causes chronic instability.

Types of Spinal Fusion Surgery:

Spinal fusion techniques vary based on the surgical approach and affected spinal region. Here are the main types:

1. Minimally Invasive Spinal Fusion (MIS): Uses tiny incisions and specialized tools for faster recovery with minimal tissue damage.
2. Conventional Open Spinal Fusion: Traditional approach with larger incision, ideal for complex cases requiring extensive reconstruction.
3. TLIF (Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion): Side-entry fusion through the spinal foramen, minimizing nerve disturbance.
4. PLIF (Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion): Direct back approach for wide disc access, often used for severe degeneration.
5. ALIF (Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion): Abdominal-entry fusion preserves back muscles, best for L4-S1 disc issues.

What is the Procedure of Spinal Fusion Surgery?

Spinal fusion surgery permanently joins two or more vertebrae to stabilize the spine. Here's how it's performed:

1. Preparation & Anesthesia: The patient is placed under general anesthesia and positioned carefully for optimal spinal access.
2. Incision & Approach: The surgeon makes an incision (minimally invasive or open) to reach the affected vertebrae.
3. Disc Removal & Graft Placement: The damaged disc is removed, and a bone graft (natural or synthetic) is inserted to promote fusion.
4. Stabilization (if needed): Metal screws, rods, or cages may be placed to hold vertebrae in place during healing.
5. Closure & Recovery: The incision is closed, and the patient begins a structured rehab program for 3–6 months until bones fully fuse.

Recovery Timeline of Spinal Fusion Surgery:

• Hospital Stay: 2-5 days
• Brace: 6-12 weeks if needed
• Return to Work: 6-12 weeks (desk job), 3-6 months (physical labor)
• Full Fusion: 6-18 months (visible on X-ray)

Potential Risks:

• Non-union: 5-15% failure to fuse
• Adjacent segment disease
• Hardware failure (rare)
• Nerve injury: <1%
• Blood loss: higher in open procedures

Modern Advancements in Spinal Fusion Surgery:

• Minimally Invasive Techniques (MIS-TLIF)
• Robotic-assisted surgery
• 3D-printed implants
• Improved biologics for fusion

Dr. GPV Subbaiah – Best Spinal Fusion Surgeon in Hyderabad

Renowned for expertise in spinal fusion surgery, Dr. GPV Subbaiah offers advanced minimally invasive techniques for conditions like degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, and scoliosis. With high success rates, personalized care, and cutting-edge technology, he ensures faster recovery and long-term relief. Trusted by patients across Hyderabad, Dr. Subbaiah delivers exceptional spine care with compassion and precision. If you are also looking for the best spinal fusion surgery in Hyderabad, look no further than Dr. GPV Subbaiah – the Best Spinal Fusion Surgeon in Hyderabad. Book a Consultation Today!