Understanding Posterior Spinal Fusion Surgery: What You Need to Know

Spinal fusion surgery, particularly posterior spinal fusion with instrumentation, stands as the most common surgical approach for adults with scoliosis and other spinal conditions. This intricate procedure involves an orthopedic surgeon making an incision in the back, placing screws to correct scoliosis, and then “welding” the vertebrae together using bone chips. While offering significant spine curvature correction, cosmetic, and posture benefits, it does result in some loss of spinal flexibility.

Imaging techniques like ALIF (Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion), PLIF (Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion), TLIF (Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion), and minimally invasive approaches play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating various spinal conditions. Spinal fusion surgery, initially developed for treating spinal instability, deformities such as scoliosis and kyphosis, and traumatic spine fractures, now extends its utility to conditions like degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, and spinal tumors.

In children, particularly those with neuromuscular scoliosis, spinal fusion surgery involves fusing the bones in the back with locally sourced bone material, supported by metal rods to maintain a straight spine during the healing and fusion process.

Despite its effectiveness, this surgery is not without risks. Rare complications can include infection and spinal cord abnormalities or injuries. For a detailed understanding of these procedures, resources from reputable hospitals and medical centers like HSS and Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia provide extensive information.

A case study highlighting the impact of this surgery can be seen in Kellyann’s Story, where a 14-year-old experienced a sudden progression in her scoliosis to a 65-degree curve, necessitating posterior spinal fusion surgery. Her journey and the outcomes of such procedures offer insights into the real-life implications of spinal fusion surgeries.

Furthermore, the neuromuscular scoliosis spinal fusion clinical pathways standardized by the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia provides a comprehensive approach for the perioperative management of patients following posterior spinal fusion. These guidelines ensure consistent and effective care, enhancing patient outcomes in these complex procedures.