Spinal Fusion Surgery
Summary
| Key Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Purpose of fusion | Stabilize wobbly vertebrae with screws and spacers |
| When it's needed | Spondylolisthesis, instability, extensive decompression, back pain as the main symptom |
| Guideline recommendation | Beneficial for cases with instability (Evidence level B). Routine addition is not recommended |
| Types of fusion | Posterior (PLIF/TLIF), lateral (LLIF), anterior (ALIF) — all generally produce good results |
| Minimally invasive options | MIS/MISt may reduce the physical burden |
| Compared to decompression | Superior for back pain, but no difference for leg pain. Higher cost and slightly lower return-to-work rate |
| Long-term risk | Adjacent segment disease requires attention |
Next Steps
→ Long-Term Risks of Fusion — Adjacent segment disease and other long-term considerations explained in detail
→ Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) — A reversible treatment to consider before committing to fusion
💎 Detailed Treatment Comparison — Compare costs, risks, and long-term outcomes of fusion and SCS (Members only)
This page provides medically accurate information, but it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment tailored to your individual situation.