During many spinal surgeries, two or more vertebrae are joined permanently, with a technique called spinal fusion. A fusion creates a solid single mass of bone. It stabilises your spine so that bones and joints no longer rub against each other.
The procedure
In preparation for the procedure, you are positioned and given anaesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision in your skin. The tissues are carefully pushed aside to create a path to your spine. The London Spine Unit is one of the only centres in the world that have the technology and expertise to do this operation as day case surgery ie if all goes as planned walk in and walkout on the same day.
Bone removal
If the fusion is to be done as part of a procedure to relieve pressure on the spinal nerves, your spine may need to be modified. Your surgeon may remove part or all of the lamina of one or more vertebrae. Removing this bone creates more space for the spinal nerves. If there are bony growths pressing on your nerves, the surgeon will remove them as well.
Graft insertion
To create the fusion, your surgeon uses a bone graft. This graft is made from a special chemical that enhances bone growth and avoids the need to remove bone from your hip. The London Spine Unit does not use cadaveric bone. The surgeon removes part of the bone from the surface of your vertebra to create a base where the graft can grow.
Stabilisation of the spine
The surgeon stabilises your spine. This involves the implantation of surgical implants to join these vertebrae. There are many devices available. Your surgeon may use screws and rods, plates, or other items. Lastly, the graft is placed against your vertebrae.
End of procedure
After the procedure is complete, the incision is closed. You will not require a brace to support your spine. In the weeks after surgery, new bone will grow and attach itself firmly to your spine. That will create a permanent fusion. You may benefit from physical therapy as you heal.
You might also want to read: Day case lumbar decompression surgery
About day case surgery
Harley Street Hospital is one of the few centres that offer day case lumbar fusion surgery. This innovative approach gives several benefits for the patient such as:
-The patient does not need to be hospitalised. As a result, you are able to return back home the same day!
-We apply local instead of general anaesthesia, avoiding its possible complications.
-Lower infection rates.
-We use innovative equipment in our surgeries.
-We have a highly qualified team of surgeons and nurses to ensure the best results.
-Day case surgery is less expensive than those requiring an overnight stay.
-Fewer post-surgery complications.
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What is lumbar fusion?
Two or more vertebrae are joined permanently together, with a technique called spinal fusion. A fusion creates a solid mass of bone. It stabilises your spine.
How does the surgeon stabilise the spine?
This involves the implantation of surgical implants and specialised bone graft to join these vertebrae. There are many devices available. Your surgeon may use screws and rods, plates, or other items. The graft is placed against your vertebrae for a natural result.
Is bone removed?
If lumbar decompression is to be done as part of a the fusion procedure to relieve pressure on the spinal nerves. Your surgeon may remove part or all of the lamina of one or more vertebrae. Removing this bone creates more space for the spinal nerves. If there are bony growths pressing on your nerves, the surgeon will remove them as well.