Spinal fusion is a procedure that joins two or more vertebrae into a single, solid bone. It is performed to eliminate painful motion between vertebral segments, correct deformity, or stabilize the spine after decompression surgery. Over time, the fused vertebrae heal together with the help of bone graft material and, in most cases, hardware such as screws and rods.
Fusion is considered when a patient has instability, significant disc degeneration, spondylolisthesis, or scoliosis that causes pain unresponsive to nonsurgical care.
How the Procedure Works
Dr. Waldron selects the fusion technique best suited to each patient. Options include anterior (from the front), posterior (from the back), or lateral (from the side) approaches. The procedure involves placing bone graft material between the vertebrae and securing the segment with titanium screws and rods.
- Approach tailored to the specific location and type of spinal problem
- Use of image guided navigation for screw placement accuracy
- Bone graft material promotes biological fusion over several months
- Hardware provides immediate structural stability while fusion occurs
What Recovery Looks Like
Hospital stays typically range from two to four days. Patients begin walking the day after surgery with guidance from physical therapy. A brace may be recommended for several weeks. Most patients return to light daily activities within four to six weeks, with full recovery and solid fusion taking three to six months.