What is this treatment?
Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure that permanently joins two or more vertebrae to reduce painful movement and improve spinal stability.
At One Orthopaedics, injections are performed with precision under imaging guidance to ensure accurate placement and maximise effectiveness.
Conditions treated
When is it recommended?
Spinal Fusion may be recommended when:
- Structural instability is present
- Degenerative changes are causing persistent pain
- Conservative treatments have been unsuccessful
- Stabilisation is required as part of complex spinal surgery
How the procedure works?
- Sometimes a Cage or a Bone graft is placed between affected vertebrae
- Stabilisation using screws and rods
- Hospital stay required
- Fusion develops gradually over time
Benefits:
- Improved spinal stability
- Long-term pain reduction
- Correction of alignment issues
- Improved functional movement
Recovery and rehabilitation
Several days in hospital may be required. Activity is increased gradually, supported by physiotherapy and regular follow-up.
Risks and Considerations
All surgical procedures carry some level of risk. These will be discussed in detail during your consultation, along with how they relate to your individual case.
Potential risks include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Dural tear (leak of spinal fluid)
- Nerve injury
- Recurrence of disc prolapse
- Ongoing or persistent symptoms
Less common risks may include:
- Incontinence or sexual dysfunction (approximately 1 in 3,000 cases)
- Serious complications that may be life-threatening (approximately 1 in 100,000 cases)
- Extremely rare complications such as loss of vision (estimated at around 1 in 1,000,000 cases)
Your surgeon will take every precaution to minimise these risks and ensure your safety throughout the procedure and recovery.
Frequently asked questions
How long does fusion take to heal?
Bone fusion develops gradually over several months.