Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Lumbar spinal fusion is surgery to join, or fuse, two or more vertebrae in the low back. The surgery is also called arthrodesis. There are different methods of spinal fusion. After surgery, you will have a short hospital stay. Bed rest usually isn't needed while you recover at home. Your doctor may recommend that you wear a back brace while you recover. Rehabilitation can take a long time. It includes walking, riding a stationary bike, swimming, and similar activities. Spinal fusion may be done by itself or along with surgery to remove bone and tissue that are narrowing the spinal canal and squeezing the spinal cord and/or the spinal nerves. It may be done as a follow-up after surgery that was done to treat problems such as spinal stenosis, herniated discs, injuries, infection, and tumors. Spinal fusion is often needed to keep the spine stable after injury, infection, or a tumor. In general, studies don't show a clear difference between spinal fusion and structured rehabilitation for treating chronic low back pain from degenerative changes in the spine.footnote 1 This type of rehabilitation can include exercise, education, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. As you decide about having spinal fusion, talk with your doctor about the benefits and risks. The risks of this surgery depend on your age and overall health, what you're having the surgery for, and the type of procedure you have. Risks include: Current as of: July 17, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Current as of: July 17, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.Topic Contents
Lumbar Spinal Fusion (Arthrodesis)
Surgery Overview
What To Expect
Why It Is Done
How Well It Works
Risks
Credits
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: July 17, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review BoardLumbar Spinal Fusion (Arthrodesis)
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.