Modern lumbar spine fusion surgery
Introduction to spine fusion surgery
Lumbar (lower) spine fusion surgery has progressed
dramatically over the last ten to fifteen years.
The newer spine fusion surgery techniques allow for
improved fusion rates, shorter hospital stays, and
a more active and rapid recovery period.
Before discussing the new spine fusion surgery techniques,
it is important to note that very few people with low
back pain actually require a fusion. While 80% of adults
will develop low back pain at some time in their life,
the painful symptoms are most often brief and require
little or no medical treatment. Most individuals can
contain their back pain through a self-directed active
physical therapy (exercise) program, including stretching,
strengthening, and importantly, a good aerobic conditioning
program. Choosing an aerobic program that is both interesting
and realistic will be most effective in the long run.
Unfortunately, for a small percentage of people, even
the most dedicated exercise program does not suffice
to alleviate low back pain. In those situations where
low back pain continues and, most importantly, substantially
limits a patient's activities, a spine fusion surgery
may be considered.
It is important to remember that despite everyone's
best efforts - including those of the spine surgeon,
therapists, and patients - fusion of the lumbar spine
does not create a normal back. Unlike other medical
procedures, such as treating a urinary tract infection
with antibiotics, lumbar spine fusion does not "fix" a
low back. Instead, the objective of lumbar spine surgery
is to stop the motion at a painful motion segment in
the spine, thereby minimizing the pain and allowing
the patient to increase his or her ability to function
and enjoy everyday activities.
This article provides an overview of four areas that
relate to lumbar spine fusion:
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