How is a spinal fusion surgery performed?
During a spine fusion surgery, the orthopaedic surgeon makes an incision (cut) on the back to expose the spine, which is called a posterior approach. Occasionally, depending on the nature of the patient and curve an incision can be made through the side of the chest, which is called an anterior approach. In rare cases, it is necessary for the surgeon to use both an anterior approach and a posterior approach on the same individual, which is called an anterior/posterior approach. This can be done on the same day or staged several days apart to allow the patient to recover between parts of the procedure. The most commonly performed procedure is done from a posterior (back) approach. Once the vertebrae involved in the curve have been exposed, metal screws and/or hooks are placed into the spine. Once the screws/hooks are in place, the surgeon will place one rod onto the spine, connecting all the screws/hooks. The spine is then slowly and carefully corrected. Once in place, a second rod is t
