Posterior Spinal Fusion

Posterior spinal fusion is a surgical technique employed in patients with spinal deformities such as scoliosis, kyphosis, or spondylolisthesis, where spine surgery is necessary. The aim of this surgery is to create a balance in the coronal (front view) as well as the sagittal (side view) planes of the spine so that the patients head and the hips are in line with one another.

During posterior spinal fusion your surgeon will make an incision over the affected vertebra, along the midline of the back. The back muscles are then retracted to gain access to the spine. This allows direct access to the spine, which allows the surgeon to achieve adequate decompression of nerves, access the facet joints, and create significant correction by mobilizing and removing the facet joints.

During the surgery, the irregularities are corrected by manipulating the spine and its different parts to create a balance. After achieving the right balance, a bone graft or bone graft substitute is placed along the back of the spine to fuse the two vertebrae into one bone. After completing the surgery, the muscles are reattached to the bone and the incision is closed.

Following the surgery, you will be transferred to the recovery room. Patients are usually encouraged to move after a day of the surgery. You should schedule a follow-up visit with your doctor approximately 10 days after surgery.

For any further queries on the procedure, kindly consult your surgeon.