Reasons For Spinal Fusion
Spinal fusion is done most commonly in the lumbar region of the spine, but it is also used to treat cervical and thoracic problems. The indications for lumbar spinal fusion are controversial. People rarely have problems with the thoracic spine because there is little normal motion in the thoracic spine. Spinal fusion in the thoracic region is most often associated with spinal deformities, such as scoliosis and kyphosis.
Patients requiring spinal fusion have either neurological deficits or severe pain which has not responded to conservative treatment. Spinal fusion surgeries are also common in patients who suffer from moderate to severe back deformities that require reconstructive surgery.
Conditions where spinal fusion may be considered:
- degenerative disc disease
- spinal disc herniation
- discogenic pain
- spinal tumor
- vertebral fracture
- scoliosis
- kyphosis (i.e., Scheuermann's disease)
- spondylolisthesis
- spondylosis
- Posterior Rami Syndrome
- other degenerative spinal conditions
- any condition that causes instability of the spine
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