Spinal fusion removes damaged discs and stabilizes the spine with a cage and screws.
About 2 hours
About 10 cm
General anesthesia
The next day
After 1 week
After stitch removal
The segments of the spine are connected to one another, so if even one weakens,various spinal conditions can develop.To treat a spinal segment definitively,spinal fusion removes degenerated bone, ligament and herniated discand inserts artificial bone that is safe for the body.
An incision of about 8–10 cm is made, and an artificial cage or screwskeep the spinal segment from moving, giving high stability.Fixing the spine firmly requires advanced surgical technique,so a specialist with extensive clinical experience is essential.
Revision surgery needed because of spinal instability after disc surgery
Patients with spinal stenosis
Patients with spondylolisthesis
Patients with paralysis symptoms
Patients with degenerative spondylosis (internal disc disruption)
Patients with recurrent disc herniation
The damaged intervertebral disc between the spinal segments is completely removed.
A spacer called a cage, made of carbon fiber (biocompatible plastic), is inserted in its place.
1. The surgery itself carries little risk, and it takes less than 2 hours.
X-ray Before Surgery
X-ray After Surgery
Pain at the surgical site right after surgery is controlled with injections.
You can walk from the day after surgery, but should rest for 3 days.
You may sit to eat, but avoid sitting for more than 1 hour.
You can shower after the stitches are removed. A brace is worn until weeks 6–12, though this may vary with your condition after surgery.
One week after surgery, avoid lifting heavy objects. You may feel some stiffness because of the implant.
Visit the hospital every month after surgery to check whether the bones are fusing.
Leg raises lying down, stretching and short exercise sessions are possible, and light walking or office work is fine.
From 3 months, whether you can do strenuous exercise and work depends on how well the fusion has healed. We recommend regular swimming or walking, which are good for the back.
