Our spine is a combination of small bones called vertebrae, separated by cushioning disks of cartilage to prevent these bones from painfully rubbing together. However, over time or following an injury these disks may wear down, and the vertebrae will rub against each other when you move. The spine is surrounded by nerves, so this friction can be painful. Medication or physical therapy can often relieve this pain, but for more severe instances, surgery or lumbar fusion may be recommended.
The procedure
Lumbar fusion takes two (or more) small vertebrae and fuses them together, so they function as one piece rather than rubbing against each other. An experienced surgeon may take a piece of bone from another part of the body and secure it with screws or rods. Over time the bone graft will grow, effectively bridging the gap between the vertebrae.
Depending on which vertebrae are causing pain and their location in the back, providers may conduct the procedure from the side (lateral), front (anterior), or the back (posterior).
Risks and side effects
Lumbar fusion can be effective in reducing or eliminating back pain caused by herniated disks. You may lose some flexibility, especially if you are fusing more than two vertebrae together. Fusing multiple levels or vertebrae is generally only recommended for severe conditions such as scoliosis.
Recovery following a lumbar fusion procedure may take a few weeks to a few months. Your doctor may recommend wearing a back brace temporarily, and gradually working up to physical therapy and back-strengthening exercises.
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