Is Spinal Fusion Dangerous

Every surgery has risks associated with it, and when a doctor recommends surgical treatment for a condition, it is because she believes that the benefits outweigh the risks. Surgeries that are more invasive usually have higher risks associated with them; for that reason, it's best to stick to minimally invasive surgeries when possible. Spinal fusion is an invasive surgery with a good deal of risk associated with it, which means that patients should seek minimally invasive surgery if possible. For patients who do need it, though, the procedure can have a big impact on healing.

Risks

Spinal fusion involves creating a large incision on the back and then using a bone graft, and sometimes screws, to link together two or more vertebrae so that they move as one. This increases the stability of the spine, and can be used to treat certain forms of back pain. Anyone undergoing the procedure risks incurring the following complications:

• Bleeding
  
• Clotting
  
• Infection 
• Damage to the nerves
  
• Pain at the site of the bone graft
  
• Failure of the vertebrae to fuse properly 

The single biggest complication from this surgery, though, is the risk that it simply won't work to relieve pain. As many as 1 in 5 patients who undergo spinal fusion continue to experience lower back pain after the procedure.

Because there are risks associated with this procedure, it's best to give non-surgical procedures your best shot before considering surgery. If you do need surgery, you can find out whether your condition can be treated with minimally invasive laser spine surgery, before deciding for sure on spinal fusion. This procedure has its place, but the risks mean that it should only be used when absolutely necessary.

To learn more about treatment for your spine pain, please click below or call the Datta Endoscopic Back Surgery and Pain Center at (646) 374-1799.