Spinal fusion is a type of spinal surgery that works to eliminate the space between two vertebrae in the spinal column. It can be used to treat small fractures, diseases of the spinal cord and other spine problems.
Procedure
With spinal fusion surgery, a bone graft is placed into the area in between the two vertebrae that are to be fused, the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons explains. This graft stimulates the natural bone healing response, causing new bone to be laid down and fusing the two vertebrae into one larger bone.
Graft Types
Two kinds of grafts can be used for spinal fusion, the North American Spine Society explains. Autograft tissue is obtained by taking a section of bone from elsewhere in the patient. With allografts, bone is taken from a bone bank, which contains donated bone tissue. Although allografts do not require surgery to remove bone from the patient, these grafts may not heal as well because the bone is not from the patient's body.
Time Frame
In general, it takes several months for the fused vertebrae to fully heal. During this period of time, it is important to keep the spine properly aligned so the bones will fuse properly. Patients will need to be shown how to sit, stand and walk properly during this healing phase.
