Spinal fusion refers to surgery done to fuse or join part of your spine. It is also called spondylosyndesis by your health care provider. This surgery is usually done by either a neurosurgeon or an orthopedic surgeon. It is used only when other types of treatments have failed. Conditions that may require spinal fusion include:
* fractures of the spine,
* problems with your back which involve discs,
* spinal stenosis or narrowing of the spinal canal, and
* certain types of severe back pain that do not respond to other types of treatment.

This surgery is done in the hospital, and can be done either from the front or back of your body. Your surgeon will decide which approach is the best for your condition. Regardless of the surgical approach, the back bones, called vertebrae, are joined. How many back bones are involved in the fusion depend on how many are abnormal. Discs may be removed from where they are causing pain, and replaced with pieces of bone, usually from your thigh bone. These pieces of bone will then heal with your vertebrae, and cause a "fusion" of the bones. Occasionally, part of the spinal canal is opened as well to make more room for the nerves that travel through that area of the canal.

Spinal fusion can result in elimination of pain and symptoms. However, some people do not get better after this surgery. It is important for your specialist to explain your options, and the risks and the benefits of surgery. Your doctor can also tell you what your chances are of feeling better after this procedure.

Choose a Health Topic Category Aging Alcohol Problems Allergies Arthritis Back & Neck Problems Blood & Circulatory Problems Bones, Joints & Muscles Brain & Nervous System Cancer Cardiovascular Health Child Health & Development Common Illnesses Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surg Dental Health Diabetes Digestive System Drug Abuse Ear, Nose & Throat Eating Disorders Exercise & Fitness Eyes & Vision Family Planning Foot Care General Health Genetic Disorders & Birth Defects Headaches Health Quizzes Hearing HIV Infections / AIDS Hormonal Disorders Infectious Diseases Medications Men's Health Mental & Emotional Health Nervous System Newborn Care Nutrition Parenting & Family Life Personal Safety Pregnancy & Childbirth Preparing for Emergencies Respiratory Problems Sexually Transmitted Diseases Skin Health Smoking Sports Medicine Stress & How to cope Surgery Symptoms Teenage Concerns Test & Examinations Urinary and Genital Systems Weight Control Women's Health   Go