Spinal Fusion Procedure Relieves Back Pain

Back pain. These are two words that can send a shiver down your spine (no pun intended). Back pain is a ubiquitous problem that plagues people globally and may originate from an array of causes, including poor posture, heavy lifting, injury, or underlying health conditions like osteoporosis, scoliosis, and herniated discs. 

Data from 2019 reveals that approximately 39% of adults had experienced back pain within the past three months. With almost four in every ten adults dealing with such back pain, it really highlights the pervasiveness of this health concern.

In some cases, where the pain is persistent and non-responsive to non-surgical treatments, one option that may be able to eliminate or reduce back pain is spinal fusion surgery. 

Understanding Spinal Fusion

Spinal fusion, as the name suggests, is a surgical process designed to fuse together two or more unstable vertebrae. The intention is to eliminate the mobility between these vertebrae, thereby reducing or eradicating back pain. By merging the vertebrae, the spine gains additional stability, which can alleviate symptoms in patients suffering from various spine disorders such as spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, and spondylolisthesis.

The Spinal Fusion Surgery Procedure

Undertaking spinal fusion surgery is a significant decision with a significant recovery period. The procedure involves placing a bone graft between the affected vertebrae. Over time, it grows and fuses the vertebrae into a single, solid bone. In many cases, surgeons may use instruments like screws and rods to hold the spine stable while the bone graft heals and “fuses” the unstable bones together.

Before the surgery, patients undergo several tests, including x-rays, CT scans, or MRI to help the surgeon understand the exact issue. Based on these images, the surgeon plans the nuances of the procedure, which typically lasts for 2-3hours. The approach your surgeon uses to perform spinal fusion surgery depends on several factors, including the specific location of the problem in your spine, the number of vertebrae involved, the nature of the problem being treated, and the surgeon’s own experience and training. 

In neurosurgery, there are three primary approaches:

• Anterior Approach (Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion, ALIF). In an anterior approach, the surgeon accesses the spine from the front of the body. The incision is typically made in the lower abdomen. The advantage of this approach is that it provides direct access to the front of the spine without disturbing the spinal nerves. It also allows for a larger graft to be inserted, which can increase the likelihood of successful fusion. However, it requires moving abdominal organs and blood vessels, which can increase surgical risks.
• Posterior Approach (Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion, PLIF, or Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion, TLIF). In a posterior approach, the surgeon accesses the spine from the back. This is the most common approach for spinal fusion. It offers the advantage of causing less disturbance to the abdominal organs, and the back muscles provide a natural path to the spine. However, it may require more muscle dissection and can potentially result in more muscle damage.
• Lateral Approach (Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion, LLIF). In a lateral approach, the surgeon accesses the spine from the side, through the patient’s flank. This approach is newer and less common than the anterior and posterior approaches, but it can be advantageous in certain situations. It allows the surgeon to access the spine without disturbing the abdominal organs or the nerves in the back. However, this approach may not be suitable for all patients or all types of spinal problems.

Each has its advantages and disadvantages, and the best approach for a particular patient depends on their specific circumstances. The surgeon’s expertise is also a crucial factor. Some neurosurgeons may be more experienced or comfortable with one approach over the others, which can influence outcomes. It’s important for patients to discuss each approach with their medical team to understand why a particular method is recommended, as well as the expected outcomes and potential risks.

The Road to Recovery: Spinal Fusion Recovery and Aftercare

A significant component of the spinal fusion journey is the recovery process. Spinal fusion recovery may span several months as the bone graft requires ample time to heal and fuse the vertebrae together. During this period, patients may need to wear a brace, and physical therapy is often recommended to help regain strength and flexibility.

Post-operative care is crucial in ensuring a successful recovery after spinal fusion. Patients are usually instructed to avoid bending, lifting, or twisting for several weeks after the surgery. Pain management, wound care, and maintaining a healthy diet are also essential aspects of the aftercare process. It’s important to follow the surgeon’s advice and attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress.

After Spinal Fusion: The Long-Term Outlook

After the spinal fusion recovery phase, patients often experience a significant reduction in their back pain, leading to an improved quality of life. Yet, it’s crucial to remember that spinal fusion surgery is generally considered when other treatments haven’t been successful. It’s a complex procedure and, like any major surgery, carries potential risks—including infection, nerve damage, and blood clots.

Importantly, every patient is unique, and so are their experiences with spinal fusion. Some patients might find complete relief from their back pain—as was the outcome for New Jersey Brain and Spine patient Dennis Kavanagh. Others may only experience a partial reduction. Several factors, such as the patient’s overall health, the cause of back pain, and the specific vertebrae involved all influence the outcome.

Why Addressing Back Pain Is So Important

Aside from the obvious benefits of addressing back pain (reduced pain, increased mobility, improved quality of life), undergoing spinal fusion surgery has far-reaching effects among the general population. Back pain represents a significant burden to the U.S. workforce, affecting productivity and employee well-being, as well as incurring considerable economic costs.

For example, back pain is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide and a common reason for missed work. Employees experiencing back pain may not perform optimally, leading to reduced productivity. They may also need to take sick leave or be absent from work due to severe pain or related medical appointments and treatments. There is also the matter of workers’ compensation claims, further demonstrating the economic impact of back pain on the U.S. workforce.

Is Spinal Fusion Surgery Right for You?

Spinal fusion surgery is an incredible medical procedure offering hope to those suffering from chronic back pain. The road to recovery may be long and require patience, but for many, it’s a path leading to a life free from the debilitating clutches of back pain.

Nonetheless, it’s essential to consider all available treatment options and discuss these with a healthcare professional. And remember, whether you are in the phase of considering spinal fusion, awaiting surgery, or are in recovery, you are not alone on this journey. With the right information, professional medical guidance, and supportive care, you can navigate this journey towards a life of comfort and mobility. The keyword to your relief could very well be “spinal fusion.”

If you or a loved one is experiencing spinal pain or other symptoms, it’s best not to wait. Visit with one of our neurosurgical professionals to better understand what’s causing the pain and how we can help ease it. Connect with our physicians to learn more.