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Spinal fusion is a specialized procedure that involves connecting two or more vertebrae together to form one solid bone. The surgery is done to eliminate movement between the two structures, thus relieving chronic back pain.

IS SPINAL FUSION RIGHT FOR YOU?

You may require spinal fusion if conservative treatments – such as medication, steroid injections, and physical therapy – have been ineffective.

It is a common, final solution for a number of conditions and diseases, including:

  • Spondylolisthesis
  • Broken or fractured vertebrae
  • Spinal instability
  • Herniated disc
  • Spinal stenosis
  • Spinal tumors
  • Scoliosis

THE PROCEDURE

A spinal fusion can take several hours to complete. There are two primary approaches to the procedure: interbody and posterolateral.

Here’s what you need to know about your options:

Interbody Fusion

Interbody fusion is a form of back surgery that is done to relieve symptoms associated with pinched nerves and damaged discs in the spine. Interbody fusion can be done anteriorly through the abdomen or posteriorly through the back. The goal of interbody fusion is to remove the damaged disc and replace it with a bone graft or an implant.

TLIF – Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion: To perform this procedure, one of our surgeons will create a small incision in the back. Through that opening, we will remove certain bones and a portion of the facet joint to access the disc.

ALIF – Anterior lumbar interbody fusion: To perform this procedure, we have a vascular surgeon help to access the spine through a small incision in the front of your abdomen. Through that opening, we can directly visualize the damaged disc.

XLIF – Extreme lateral interbody fusion: To perform this procedure, one of our surgeons will create a small incision on the side of your abdomen. Through that opening, we can directly visualize the damaged disc.

From there, we will remove the damaged portion of the disc that is compressing nearby nerves, while preserving the outer wall. We will then place a bone graft or a spacer in the empty disc space. All interbody fusions require metal screws and rods to hold the vertebrae together from the back. Over time, your own bone will build up around these structures, fusing the bones together.

Posterolateral Fusion

To begin the posterolateral fusion procedure, one of our spine surgeons will create a small incision in the lower back. Through that opening, we will move the surrounding muscles, ligaments, and tendons aside in order to access the levels of the spine that need to be fused.

Metal rods and screws are then placed to provide spinal stability while the bone graft is placed around the metal rods and screws. Your own bone will also grow in the area of this bone graft and the spine fuses together.

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AFTER YOUR PROCEDURE

Initially, you will need to remain in the hospital for several days so that we can monitor your progress and ensure your safety. During this time, you will meet regularly with physical therapists who will teach you how to safely walk, sit, and get out of bed as you heal.

It can take a full six months to a year before you are completely healed from your procedure.

As you recover, you will need to commit to:

  • Attending regular physical therapy appointments
  • Maintaining scheduled follow-up visits with our spine surgeons
  • Avoiding twisting, bending, and heavy lifting

Practice Policy Update Regarding COVID-19

Dear Patients:

Our patients, employees and family are our top priority at Long Island Spine Specialists, P.C.

We ask you to not visit any of our locations if you have symptoms such as fever, sneezing, coughing and possible shortness of breath.

Please cancel your appointment and re-schedule once you are feeling better and are no longer suffering with symptoms.

Only non-symptomatic patients will be seen. No exceptions.

Accompanying family members – including children – are asked to remain in the waiting area and will not be allowed to enter the exam rooms.

During this time of high concern regarding the spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) we are taking extra precautions to maintain the highest possible standards of safety and cleanliness. Please be advised that we are carefully following recommendations from both the CDC and WHO and are here to help guide you through this time if needed.

Some steps we are taking to keeping safe:

  1. We know how important cleanliness is and always maintain the highest standards of cleanliness. To further offer you peace of mind, we have increased the frequency of the cleaning of our office.
  2. Rest assured that hand washing is strictly followed. Hand sanitizer is available to all staff and patients.
  3. Additionally, if you have recently traveled to a country with high rates of the coronavirus or have been on a cruise, please reschedule your visit for at least 14 days from your return date. We will gladly accommodate your needs to reschedule. At that time, a telehealth interface can be arranged if necessary.

Find up-to-date and accurate information on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website and feel free to reach out with questions.

- Your team at Long Island Spine Specialists, P.C.

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Thank you very much for contacting Long Island Spine Specialists, P.C.

To best serve your individual needs, please choose from the following options:

New Patient Existing Patient Refer a Patient

To learn more about Long Island Spine Specialists – and to discover how we can relieve your pain and help you find an improved quality of life – please contact our office today and schedule a consultation.

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