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Spinal Fusion

Some spine conditions require spinal fusion surgery to restore comfort and resolve chronic pain. Whether due to an injury accident or a degenerative spine condition, this procedure should be performed by a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon who employs next-generation surgical techniques for superior outcomes and faster healing. At Premier Orthopaedic Associates, our spine surgeon, Dr. Rahul V. Shah, brings impressive surgical skills to spinal fusion surgeries. Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure designed to stabilize the spine by joining two or more vertebrae together. This surgical intervention is often recommended for individuals experiencing spinal instability, pain, or spine issues that have not responded to non-surgical treatment. 

man holding painful back

When is spinal fusion appropriate?

Spinal fusion may be recommended to address a variety of spinal conditions, including:

  • Degenerative disc disease: When discs in the spine deteriorate, causing pain and instability.
  • Scoliosis: To correct abnormal sideways curvature of the spine.
  • Spinal stenosis: When the spinal canal narrows, compressing nerves and causing pain.
  • Herniated discs: When a disc's inner material protrudes and presses on nearby nerves.
  • Spinal fractures: To stabilize the spine after a traumatic injury.

What is the procedure?

Spinal fusion is a carefully planned surgical procedure that typically involves the following steps:

Preoperative assessment

Before surgery, the patient undergoes a thorough evaluation, which may include imaging studies, to determine the extent of the condition.

Anesthesia

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia to ensure the patient's comfort and pain-free surgery.

Incision

A small incision is made to access the affected area of the spine, providing access to the affected vertebrae.

Bone graft

To achieve fusion, a bone graft is placed between the vertebrae. This graft can be taken from the patient's own body (autograft), a donor (allograft), or synthesized in a lab (synthetic graft).

Implants

In some cases, screws, rods, or plates may be used to stabilize the spine and hold the vertebrae in place during fusion.

Closure

The incision is carefully closed with sutures or staples, and the surgical site is monitored.

What is the recovery after spinal fusion surgery?

Recovery following spinal fusion varies depending on the extent of the procedure and the condition being resolved. Generally, most  patients can expect:

  • A hospital stay from a day or two to a week. At Premier Orthopaedic Associates, we use a multimodal pain control process to block all pain pathways, including CNS/brain, neuro/nerve, and inflammatory markers for greater comfort and faster healing.
  • You can expect a period of limited physical activity and restrictions regarding bending or lifting while the fusion takes place. Our professional team of physical therapists will work with you to assist in regaining mobility and comfort. 
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What are the benefits of spinal fusion?

Spinal fusion can deliver a set of benefits to those with a damaged spine due to a work injury, accident, or other incident. By fusing vertebrae, spinal fusion can stabilize the spine and prevent further movements in the area, allowing it to heal. Many patients experience significant pain relief following spinal fusion surgery, especially if the procedure addresses the underlying cause of their discomfort. Spinal fusion can improve a patient's ability to perform daily activities by restoring spinal stability.

graphic of upper spine

Why choose Premier Orthopaedic Associates?

When considering spinal fusion surgery, selecting the right spine surgeon is crucial. At Premier Orthopaedic Associates, we are proud to offer our patients treatment from a leading spine surgeon in New Jersey, Dr. Rahul Shah. As a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon, experienced in minimally invasive spine surgery expertise in complex spine treatment options can allow you to be fully confident that you are under the care of the best. Our state-of-the-art facilities are equipped with advanced surgical technologies to ensure precise and effective treatments, and we offer a range of supportive services, including physical therapy and pain management to support our patients through recovery. 

If you're considering spinal fusion surgery to address a spinal condition, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our expert team at Premier Orthopaedic Associates. Discover the benefits of spinal fusion and take the first step toward a pain-free and stable spine with our specialized care.

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About our spine surgeon

Dr. Rahul V. Shah, MD, is a dedicated member of Premier Orthopaedic Associates' interventional spine team. With a focus on providing relief from back and neck pain, he offers a wide range of treatment options, including injection therapy and advanced surgical procedures to tackle complex spine issues. Dr. Shah's unwavering commitment and hard work have brought relief and renewed hope to patients dealing with life-altering injuries. As an attending faculty member at Rowan University Medical School and a valuable contributor to the Orthopedic Residency Program at South Jersey Healthcare, he is not only a skilled practitioner but also a passionate educator. He cares deeply about his patients and focuses on helping them experience a pain-free life.

runner on trail

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