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The Risks of Spinal Fusion

Although spinal fusion can be effective in the treatment of pain, there are risks that are important to be aware of prior to considering spinal fusion as a treatment option. The surgeon will evaluate a person's suitability for such a procedure.

  1. Smoking and Medical Conditions

    • Patients who smoke often have a higher risk of complications for spinal fusion and may have a more difficult recovery. Many spinal fusion patients are required to stop smoking for a few months prior to surgery to reduce risks. Success rates are often lower for those who are overweight, as well as for those who smoke, are diabetic or have other medical issues.

    Pain at Donor Bone

    • Some patients have pain at the site of the donor bone after surgery, which may involve infection or nerve injury. This is often due to the screws, plates or other items used to fuse the vertebrae.

    Nerve Damage

    • Other complications may include some nerve damage, especially with surgeries involving the lower back, but this rarely occurs.

    Failed Surgery

    • Some people also suffer from failed surgery and continue to live in pain, but the likelihood of this increases with fusions of three or more levels of vertebrae. For some patients, the vertebrae may not fuse together after surgery or there is the potential for the graft to migrate and require a second surgery.

    General Complications

    • Although there is a chance for complications, they do not occur often and can happen with any surgery. Complications are possible with all types of surgery and include bleeding, infection and complications with anesthesia.

    Considerations

    • It is important to be well-educated about such a medical decision and trust your surgeon. By following the surgeon's recommendations after your surgery, patients have a greater chance of a successful recovery.

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