SPINAL FUSION

Spinal or posterior lumbar fusion is a surgical procedure performed to connect two or more vertebrae in a spine to boost stability, fix a deformity, or alleviate pain. The techniques used in spinal fusion surgery are designed to replicate the body’s natural healing process. During spinal fusion, a surgeon uses a bone or a material with similar qualities and places it in between two vertebrae. Following this, they then may use screws and plates to keep everything in place and help the bones to heal together. If you’re interested in undergoing Spinal Fusion Surgery, contact us to speak with a spine surgeon in Suffolk County.

WHEN MIGHT YOU NEED SPINAL FUSION SURGERY?

Spine surgery is a severe and complicated procedure because of its invasive techniques. This option is reserved usually for when your doctor can accurately pinpoint the source of pain by performing various tests and diagnostics. This can include evaluations such as a computerized tomography scan (also known as a CT), MRI scan (magnetic resonance imaging), or an x-ray. You’ll need to ensure that you’re undergoing the proper testing. If you’re looking for a spine surgeon in Suffolk County, contact New York Orthopaedic Spinal Associates today.

WHAT DOES SPINAL FUSION TREAT?

Spinal fusion surgery has been known to treat the following medical complications:

  • Broken vertebrae.
  • Deformities of the spine.
  • Spinal weakness or instability.
  • Spondylolisthesis.
  • Herniated disk.

If your injury is not listed here, see other conditions our spine surgeon in Suffolk County has been known to treat on our website.

RECOVERING FROM SPINAL FUSION SURGERY

The recovery process proceeding spinal fusion surgery typically ranges from one month to three months. During the recovery time, patients usually participate in physical rehabilitation and are warned to avoid certain strenuous activities such as heavy lifting. Visit our website for more information regarding what options are available to you, courtesy of our spine surgeon in Suffolk County.

Here is an outline of what the days after surgery may look like:

  • After spinal fusion surgery, you might have to start your recovery in the hospital for a few days.
  • You likely will be fitted with a brace to help promote support and stability.
  • In most cases, patients will need some form of rehab to regain strength and standard functionality.
  • Depending on your overall health and other factors, within 2-6 months after gradually increasing activity, you will likely start to regain normal function.

Learn more about the benefits of spinal fusion surgery and contact a spine surgeon in Suffolk County who could help you over at New York Orthopaedic Spinal Associates.