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What Are the Dangers of Spinal Fusion?

The surgical procedure called spinal fusion is used to correct back problems. It involves stabilizing the spine by using bone and metal screws or rods to fuse together relevant bones (also called vertebrae).

  1. Surgery Risks

    • Although the likelihood of developing complications following spinal fusion is low, potential problems include bleeding, blood clots, difficulty urinating, heart attack, hernias, infection, intestinal dysfunction, nerve damage and stroke. All may produce pain and a longer recovery.

    Medication Problems

    • Medications like aspirin and NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) can adversely affect the immediate results of spinal fusion by interfering with anesthesia or causing bleeding.

    Warning Signs

    • Symptoms that indicate a potential problem following spinal fusion include calf pain, redness or tenderness around the knee and swollen ankles, calves or feet. Related complications are more likely to develop several weeks after surgery.

    Blood Clots

    • If a blood clot forms, the bloodstream can carry it to the lungs, which may lead to sudden angina (chest pain), coughing and shortness of breath. Such symptoms require immediate emergency medical attention.

    Infection

    • Indications of an infection after spinal fusion include chills, inflammation around the surgical wound, pain, tenderness, wound drainage and a fever above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. These warning signs also necessitate prompt emergency assistance.

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