What is bilateral fusion?

This refers to placing screws within the pedicles of each vertebral segment (bilaterally—on both sides of the spine) and connecting them to each other with a metal rod. A one level fusion would fuse two vertebrae and usually uses four screws and two rods.

What is a fixation fusion?

Introduction. Spinal fixation and fusion represent the gold standard for the surgical treatment of a variety of spinal diseases including degenerative disorders. The overall aims of fixation are to stop the degenerative process and to provide pain relief through stabilization.

What is posterior spinal fixation?

Posterior fixation for the thoracolumbar spine is a procedure intended to provide realignment, immobilization, and stabilization of spinal segments in skeletally mature patients throughout the healing process, allowing fusion to occur.

What is pedicle fixation?

Percutaneous pedicle fixation is a specific technique that surgeons can use to implant metal rods and screws that stabilize the spine. This technique may be used during a spinal fusion procedure. Percutaneous pedicle fixation is performed without a traditional large incision.

Is a fixation the same as a fusion?

In most cases, spinal fusion is augmented by a process of internal fixation of the spine known as spinal fixation. This involves the placement of metallic screws, wire loops, hooks, rods, plates or cages to stabilise the vertebrae and facilitate bone fusion.

What is thoracolumbar spine surgery?

A thoracic laminectomy, also known as open decompression, involves the removal of the portion of the bone causing pressure on the nerves. It is recommended for conditions such as disc herniation and spinal stenosis. It is performed under general anesthetic and through a small incision in the back.

Can you feel the hardware after spinal fusion?

Often, excessive pain is a symptom of a loose screw after spinal fusion or other hardware complication. “If the hardware is prominent under the skin the patient may feel a painful bump,” Dr. Lieberman explains.