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Best Doctors For Spinal Fusion in Dhakuria

Spinal Fusion

Best Doctors For Spinal Fusion in Dhakuria

Spinal Fusion is a procedure that involves the joining of two or more affected vertebrae by inserting bone grafts and securing them with screws and rods, thereby preventing any movement and providing stability to the vertebrae. The graft inserted is then fused with the vertebrae, forming a single solid bone. Also referred to as Vertebral Interbody Fusion, the procedure is usually combined with Decompression procedures to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. Spinal Fusion procedures are performed in several different ways and are based on patient anatomy and the condition addressed.

Specialists in the Department of Spine Care at Manipal Hospitals, Dhakuria, West Bengal, leverage cutting-edge technologies to employ a minimally invasive approach that offers various advantages compared to Open surgery, such as shorter hospital stays, quick recovery, reduced scarring, and minimal complications. However, patients may require more invasive procedures, although this is based on individual factors, such as the severity of the condition. The department considers every parameter to decide the appropriate approach for your condition, along with our dedicated nursing and support staff offering round-the-clock assistance throughout your treatment journey.

FAQ's

Spinal Fusion procedures address several conditions, some of which include:

  • Degenerative disc disease

  • Spinal stenosis

  • Scoliosis or kyphosis, characterised by abnormal curvatures

  • Spondylolisthesis

  • Spinal injury or fractures

  • Unstable or weak spine caused by certain infections or tumours of either benign or malignant nature

Spinal Fusion procedures can also be done along with other procedures, including Foraminotomy and Diskectomy.

The type of Spinal Fusion procedures performed depends on the approach and the type of fusion needed for your condition. Some of the Spinal Fusion procedures employed by specialists include:

  • Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF)

  • Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF)

  • Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF)

  • Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion (LLIF)

  • Posterolateral Fusion (PLF)

  • Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)

  • Posterior Cervical Fusion (PCF)

  • Axial Lumbar Interbody Fusion (AxiaLIF)

  • Facet Fusion

General instructions you can follow that can help you prepare yourself for the Spinal Fusion procedure include:

  • Refrain from smoking or chewing tobacco and limit alcohol before the surgery.

  • Quitting medications, including Anticoagulants, Aspirin, and NSAIDs like Ibuprofen and Naproxen at least 2 weeks or as otherwise specified before the procedure.

  • Informing our specialist of any allergies induced by certain medications and co-morbidities such as diabetes, heart disease, blood pressure, or other medical conditions.

  • Arrange your transportation to and from the hospital and stay at the hospital after the procedure.

Addressing any questions or doubts you have regarding the procedure with our specialist, which will be resolved promptly.

A Spinal Fusion procedure can take anywhere from 1 to 5 hours, although this can vary depending on the circumstances of the procedure. Many steps influence the duration of the procedure, such as the technique used, the type of bone graft obtained (it could be received from a bone bank or can be obtained from the patient's body itself, preferably the pelvis), the type of fusion instruments, such as metal plates, screws, or rods, as well as the need for additional procedures such as Spinal Decompression or Correction Surgeries. Our specialist will let you know the expected duration of the procedure based on your case report.

Some complications that are associated with the Spinal Fusion procedure include:

  • Infection, severe pain, or heavy bleeding at the surgical site. 

  • Poor wound healing

  • Allergies or adverse events to anaesthesia, such as irregular breathing

  • Recurring symptoms after the procedure

  • Pseudarthrosis, determined by a lack of bone fusion

  • Damage to the nerves or blood vessels during the procedure

  • Formation of blood clots or thrombosis

  • Leakage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)

  • Loss of bowel or bladder control

  • Wearing away of vertebrae present above and below where the fusion is performed, particularly in the lumbar region

  • Implant-related complications, such as loosening or migration of screws, necessitating a Revision Surgery

You will be shifted to the recovery room after the procedure and may require hospitalisation for 3 to 4 days, depending on the procedure. During your stay at the hospital, you will be closely monitored for any complications and will be given personalised instructions on performing normal activities and routines. Any discomfort or pain that may arise during your stay will be addressed with pain medications by our specialists. You may be told to use support systems, such as back braces or crutches, to help you move. Moreover, you may be advised to avoid solid food for a few days.

Complete recovery for patients who have undergone a Spinal Fusion procedure may take up to 8 months, although it will take around 12 to 18 months for the bones to completely evolve and fuse. Significant pain is expected for the first 4 weeks post-surgery, which should gradually decrease, although some patients may experience pain for 3 to 6 months. Pain management medications will be provided, and follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress and make adjustments to medications if needed. You will also be recommended for physical therapy, where our physical and occupational therapists will assist you with customised exercises to enhance your recovery.

General post-care instructions you should follow for quick recovery after the Spinal Fusion procedure include:

  • Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing your body weight by performing regular exercise with limited exertion and paying attention to your diet

  • Adhering to medication schedules tailored by our specialist

  • Wearing back braces and other assisted devices to relieve pressure and provide stability to your spine

  • Having adequate and comfortable sleep in the proper position

  • Quitting smoking or chewing tobacco to avoid any complications during your recovery

  • Applying heat and ice to enhance your recovery

  • Following exercises instructed by physical therapists, going for daily walks, and performing light stretches

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