TREATMENTS
POSTERIOR FUSION
A posterior lumbar interbody fusion is a spinal surgery that involves the use of a bone graft made from allograft or synthetic material to stimulate healing and promote movement.
When is a posterior fusion required?
A posterior fusion treats back pain due to a degenerative spinal condition related to significant disc changes. A posterior fusion prevents friction between vertebral points in the lower back, causing pain. In addition to preventing painful movement between the vertebral segments, fusion surgery provides stability to the affected region.
Procedure
Posterior fusion is performed in the lower back and is often termed "posterior lumbar interbody fusion surgery.” A long incision is created along the back, running through till three to six inches. Dr Makan strips Erector Spinae, lower back muscles from the laminae and removes these bones to see the nerve roots. The facet joints placed directly over the nerve roots need to be trimmed to make more room for the nerves. After shifting the nerve roots to one side, Dr Makan cleans the space of disc material. A cage comprising allograft material or a posterior cage from the bone graft is carefully placed in the disc space to connect to the vertebral body.
Posterior fusion is slightly different to interbody fusion because the graft is placed at the sides of the bone instead of between the discs. Often PLF is used in conjunction with decompression surgery (laminectomy).
Recovery
Post-operative care after posterior fusion is critical, even though this procedure has a high success rate ensuring that the vertebral segments are completely stabilised. Recovering from the procedure depends on the extent of the procedure, including previous chronic medical conditions. It takes three to six months for the graft to fuse between the adjacent vertebrae. Of course, implantable cages, screws, rods and plates help secure both points. In addition, bracing is vital as this encourages the graft to unify into a single piece. Wearing a brace helps prevent unnecessary movement and promotes faster recovery.
FAQ
Bracing is required after a traumatic spine fracture to avoid excessive movement and damage to the spine. This is encouraged over many months to ensure that the section of the spine is stabilised.
After surgery, you cannot engage in strenuous exercises such as jogging, riding a bicycle, lifting weights and any intense cardio activity. In addition, you cannot drive for over thirty minutes between two to four weeks after posterior fusion surgery.
Fusion surgery prevents unusual movement between the vertebrae, therefore, minimising pain.