Lumbar fusion refers to a set of spinal surgery techniques aimed at connecting two or more vertebrae in the lumbar spine, which is the lower back region. The principal idea behind fusion surgery, often known as arthrodesis, is to enable the bones to grow together, ultimately forming a single, solid bone.
There are multiple ways to perform this surgery. One such procedure is the Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF). In ALIF, surgeons navigate through the abdomen to access the spine’s front and merge the vertebrae in the lower back. The operation often requires teamwork, with an “approach” surgeon providing access and a specialized spine surgeon carrying out the fusion. Read more about this intricate procedure here.
In an Instrumented Spinal Fusion, surgical tools such as rods, plates, and screws are utilized to assist the fusion. It’s a preferred method when the spine’s stability is compromised. This fusion can be conducted on both adult and pediatric patients. Further details on this technique can be found here.
Another notable procedure is the Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF). Here, a section of the spinal disc between two vertebrae is removed, and a spacer (cage) is placed in its stead, fortified with screws and rods. This unique approach offers significant advantages. Dive deeper into TLIF here.
When performing lumbar spinal fusion, doctors have options in terms of approach. They can access the spine from the front (anterior), the side (lateral), the back (posterior), or use a combination of methods, including the aforementioned TLIF approach. Interestingly, some of these techniques can be performed using minimally invasive methods. For a comprehensive look at these methods, click here.
Lumbar fusion, though initially developed for spinal instability, deformities, and traumatic fractures, now caters to a broader range of spinal issues, including degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, and even spinal tumors. More about the various conditions addressed by spinal fusion can be explored here.
In conclusion, lumbar fusion remains a cornerstone in spinal health, offering relief and rehabilitation to countless patients across the globe.
