Lumbar Spinal Fusion Surgery

Lumbar spinal fusion is a surgical procedure to join two or more adjacent vertebrae in the lumbar or lower back region in order to stabilize the spine and relieve pain. It may be performed during the treatment of a traumatic spine injury, degenerated or herniated intervertebral discs, abnormal spine curvature or tumors to stabilize the spine after the removal of bone or disc during these procedures. Lumbar spinal fusion fixes the vertebral bones in an ideal position and limits movement that can cause pain.

To perform a lumbar spinal fusion, your doctor may approach the spine either through your abdomen, flank or back. A bone graft from your own body or from a deceased donor is inserted between the vertebral bones to encourage bone growth and fusion. Synthetic bone grafts and other substances that promote bone growth may also be used. Screws and plates are then inserted to support the bones as they fuse. This surgery may also be performed by minimally invasive methods using tiny incisions.

Following lumbar spinal fusion surgery your doctor will advise you to wear a brace until the vertebrae are adequately fused. This may take several months, during which certain activities such as bending, twisting and lifting must be avoided or limited.

Lumbar spinal fusion, as with any invasive procedure, may carry certain risks such as infection, bleeding, nerve injury and recurrence of pain.