When should you have spinal fusion surgery?

When should you have spinal fusion surgery?

Spinal fusion is best for treating low back pain caused by severe degenerative disc changes and is best for treating one, or maybe two, levels of the lower spine (typically the L4-L5 level and/or L5-S1 level).

Is Spinal fusion major surgery?

Spinal fusion is a major surgery and medical procedure used to treat back injuries. The surgery includes using rods and screws, and bone grafts to stabilize the spine. This surgery is usually a last resort after other treatments have been tried and failed.

Can scoliosis cause back pain?

In adults, scoliosis symptoms can cause a gradual loss of function. They include: Low back pain and stiffness. Numbness, cramping, and shooting pain in the legs from pinched nerves.

Can you have cervical and lumbar surgery at the same time?

The combined stenosis of the cervical and lumbar spinal canal dictates careful neurologic and neuroradiologic examinations. Simultaneous surgery is an alternative approach for patients with symptomatic multilevel spinal stenoses, whose general conditions necessitate a one-session and short-lasting surgery.

Is a spinal fusion a disability?

If you have suffered from a spinal disorder that has resulted in you undergoing spinal fusion, but you are still unable to work, you may be eligible to qualify for Social Security disability benefits.

How much pain is normal after spinal fusion surgery?

As the back continues to heal, patients usually start to feel better and find they can take on more activities. The worst pain is generally over by 4 weeks after surgery. Pain is likely to continue to decrease gradually, but some patients continue to have pain 3 to 6 months after surgery.

How long does it take for bone to grow after spinal fusion?

With spinal instrumentation and fusion working together, new bone will grow around the metal implants – similar to reinforced concrete. Figure 2. After 3 to 6 months new bone growth will fuse the two vertebrae into one solid piece of bone.

What is Tandem stenosis?

Background: Tandem spinal stenosis refers to spinal canal diameter narrowing in at least 2 distinct regions of the spine, most commonly the lumbar and cervical regions. This entity can be an asymptomatic radiographic finding, or it can present with severe myelopathy and lower-extremity symptoms.

What does a failed fusion feel like?

After any spine surgery, a percentage of patients may still experience pain. This is called failed back or failed fusion syndrome, which is characterized by intractable pain and an inability to return to normal activities. Surgery may be able to fix the condition but not eliminate the pain.

Why do I still have pain after spinal fusion?

Despite careful diagnosis and a successful operation, some patients may still experience pain after their back surgery. This persistent pain or continuation of symptoms is known as failed back syndrome (sometimes called failed back surgery syndrome), and it can affect your ability to complete daily tasks.

How long does it take for a spinal fusion to fully heal?

Your Recovery It may take 4 to 6 weeks to get back to doing simple activities, such as light housework. It may take 6 months to a year for your back to get better completely. You may need to wear a back brace while your back heals. And your doctor may have you go to physiotherapy.