Most people are likely to experience low back pain at some point in their life and may respond to conservative treatments. However, there are severe cases that may require surgical intervention. Fortunately, Polaris Spine and Neurosurgery Center offers lumbar fusion in Bethlehem to alleviate chronic pain and restore spinal stability.
What Is Lumbar Fusion?
Lumbar fusion, also known as spinal fusion, refers to a surgery that permanently connects some spinal vertebrae to limit motion in the affected segment and alleviate chronic pain. This fusion prevents overstretching of the surrounding nerves, muscles, and ligaments, which may cause pain and discomfort. Lumbar fusion treatments usually mimic the natural healing process of broken or fractured bones. Spinal fusion is only recommendable when your surgeon detects the root cause of your pain.
When Should You Consider Lumbar Fusion?
Lumbar fusion surgery permanently fuses two or more vertebrae to alleviate chronic pain, correct spinal deformities, or restore stability. The medical team at Polaris Spine and Neurosurgery Center may recommend lumbar fusion if you have the following:
· Spinal weakness
· Fractured vertebrae
· Spondylolisthesis
· Recurrent herniated disc
· Spinal instability
· Spinal stenosis resulting from instability
· Scoliosis and other spine deformities
· Severe arthritis affecting the bones in your spine
In some cases, chronic back is treatable using conservative treatments, such as steroid injections, regenerative medicine, or physical therapy. However, there are severe cases that may be unresponsive to traditional medications. In such cases, the skilled team at Polaris Spine and Neurosurgery Center may recommend lumbar fusion. Your surgeon may discuss your symptoms with you, review your medical history, conduct a thorough medical exam, and order imaging tests such as MRIs or X-rays to determine if you're eligible for the surgery.
What Happens During A Lumbar Fusion Procedure?
Before the procedure, the team may trim the hair around the target area and meticulously clean it with antiseptic. The team may also take a swab sample from your nose to monitor any unhealthy bacteria. Additionally, your surgeon may request you to stop taking any medications that you may be taking. Afterward, your provider injects you with general anesthesia to ensure that you're unconscious throughout the procedure. The team then utilizes cutting-edge robotic technology for accuracy and meticulousness. This state-of-art technology also helps in creating smaller incisions and reducing loss of blood. The spinal surgery team makes tiny incisions on your back to access your vertebrae and use bone grafts to join two vertebrae together. The surgeon positions the bone graft between two vertebrae and may utilize plates or rods to keep them together as they heal.
What Should You Expect After Lumbar Fusion?
After the surgery, you may need to stay at the hospital for a day or two for close monitoring. If you notice any signs of infection like tenderness, fever, or swelling on your back, inform your doctor immediately. Your surgeon may also recommend that you avoid overworking your back or wear braces during the healing phase.
For more information about lumbar fusion, contact Polaris Spine and Neurosurgery Center.
