There is a procedure called spinal fusion which many people have experienced. It is a process by which at least two vertebrae are fused together for various reasons. For some, it is the reduction of pain that people are experiencing. It may also result in correcting a natural deformity as is a procedure that can be done locally by an orthopedic spinal surgeon in Las Vegas, NV .

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Those that have this procedure may also see a decided improvement in spinal stability. This is a permanent process, one that cannot be reversed, and there are many risks associated with this medical procedure. Here is an overview of the many different types of spinal fusion procedures and why these would be necessary.

Reasons For Spinal Fusion Surgery

An example of why spinal fusion would be needed would be correcting scoliosis. This is a condition that occurs on the spine, causing it to develop a substantial curvature. In addition to this, deformities of the spine can also be corrected by fusing two vertebrae or more together. This can enhance the well-being of the individual, improving conditions such as back pain or radiculopathy that may inhibit their movement. If you do need this procedure, it is likely the result of x-rays and examinations that your physician has ordered. There are different types of spinal fusion procedures that may be recommended by your doctor.

Different Types Of Spinal Fusion Procedures

There are many different types of spinal fusion procedures. Each one is administered in various ways for a wide variety of purposes.

Posterolateral gutter fusion is a process that is done directly through the back which will require a bone graft from the pelvis to complete the procedure.

Posterior lumbar interbody fusion procedures will involve removing the disc that is located in between two separate vertebrae. It involves inserting a piece of bone in its place in order to reduce overall back pain.

Anterior/posterior spinal fusion procedures can be done in the front or back. It is a procedure that can stop abnormal motion in the lumbar or lower back region.

The transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion procedure involves removing the intervertebral disc causing discomfort, and connecting two or more vertebrae together using a cage or screws to complete the process.

Extreme lateral interbody fusion procedures will be performed from the side. In each case, the primary objective is to repair damage or deformities located on the spine.

How Difficult Are These Procedures To Recover From?

Due to the invasive nature of these procedures, it can take quite some time to recover. It may take well over a year for the healing process of the fusion to actually reach completion. In regard to nerve damage, the nerves associated with the vertebrae and discs may not fully recover for two years or more. However, during this time the person will experience less back pain due to the corrective nature of these processes.

How Long Do These Procedures Take?

Each of these procedures is regarded as major surgery. They tend to last for several hours. Depending upon the procedure itself, and how many vertebrae and discs are involved, it may require several hours of additional time to complete the procedure. Additionally, if bone grafts are required, specifically to make the bridge between the vertebrae, the process can be extended even more.

Spinal fusion procedures have become more mainstream with advancements in surgical techniques and tools. However, these procedures are still going to be invasive, and will require many months or even years to heal. If you do suffer from scoliosis, or if your vertebrae have been damaged, they may be necessary for you to eliminate constant discomfort. If you do experience constant back pain, speaking with your physician or orthopedic surgeon in Las Vegas, NV about spinal fusion procedures, may lead to reducing or eliminating constant back pain.

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