What is a spinal disc fusion and how long is recovery?
There are two main types of spinal fusion, which may be used in conjunction with each other: Posterolateral fusion places the bone graft between the transverse processes in the back of the spine. These vertebrae are then fixed in place with screws and/or wire through the pedicles of each vertebrae attaching to a metal rod on each side of the vertebrae. Interbody fusion places the bone graft between the vertebrae in the area usually occupied by the intervertebral disc. In preparation for the spinal fusion, the disc is removed entirely. The fusion then occurs between the endplates of the vertebrae. This procedure may be done through the abdomen (Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion or ALIF) or through the back (Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion or PLIF). Using both types of fusion is known as 360-degree fusion. In most cases, the fusion is augmented by a process called fixation, meaning the placement of metallic screws, rods or plates to stabilize the vertebra prior to bone fusion. The fusio
