Spinal fusion is a surgery that permanently joins two or more bones in your spine, called vertebrae. By fusing these bones together, the procedure helps relieve discomfort, improve stability or fix alignment issues caused by conditions like scoliosis, slipped vertebrae or degenerative disc disease.
During the surgery, your doctor uses bone grafts, screws, rods or plates to hold your vertebrae in place while they grow together into one solid bone. Fusing them stops the movement between the bones, easing symptoms like pain or nerve irritation and helping you regain comfort and mobility.
Neurosurgeons and orthopedic surgeons, both of whom may be spine surgeons, can perform spinal fusion, depending on your condition. Both types of spine surgeons can decompress your nerves, remove arthritis and fuse your spinal bones.
Once you and your surgeon decide that spinal fusion is the best treatment for you, there are several steps to get ready for surgery.
You will have a physical exam, blood tests, and X-rays or other imaging tests, such as a DEXA scan, to ensure you’re healthy enough for the procedure. Tell your surgeon about any medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs and any herbal medicines or supplements.
You might have to stop taking certain medicines in the weeks before surgery, for example, aspirin or ibuprofen, which can thin your blood, causing you to bleed excessively during surgery. You should also tell your healthcare provider about any other illnesses or conditions you have.
If you smoke, you should quit. Smoking can interfere with your body’s healing process. Your healthcare team can help you find support.
It is a good idea to prepare your home for when you return from the hospital. You might want to set up a comfortable recovery area or prepare meals in advance to freeze. If you can, ask a friend or relative to help you with everyday tasks during the early days of your recovery. You should remove any trip hazards and consider items such as a shower chair, raised toilet seat and handheld shower attachment.
Try to eat a healthy, balanced diet and get regular physical activity. The fitter and healthier you are before your surgery, the more likely you are to have a more successful recovery.
Recovery from spinal fusion surgery is a gradual process. While you’ll be able to resume many everyday activities within a few weeks, it can take several months to fully recover. You’ll start with light activities, like walking, and depending on your job, you may return to work in a few weeks to a few months. Full benefits may take longer, but many people begin to feel better soon after surgery.
It can take months for the bones to fully fuse, though you may feel more comfortable much sooner. During this time, your healthcare team will teach you how to move, sit, stand and walk to keep your spine in proper alignment. Your symptoms will gradually improve, and as your strength returns, you can increase your activity level. Physical therapy may begin around six weeks to three months after surgery, depending on your needs, and your doctor will discuss whether it's necessary for your recovery.
By following your doctor’s advice and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, you’ll increase your chances of a successful recovery.
