Thoracic Fusion Surgery
Spinal fusion is one of the treatment options used to stabilize the spinal bones or vertebrae. The goal of fusion spinal surgery is to sustain a solid bridge of bone between two or more vertebrae. Our board-certified neuro spine surgeons ‘fuse’ or graft a bone to the deteriorated bone in the spine to provide strength and stability to the spinal cord.
Spinal fusion surgery is used for pain management and recommended to patients with chronic neck pain and other spinal conditions. Spinal fusion is used when the spine has become unstable because of a deformity in the spine, a decrease in the natural disc space, impairment because of herniated discs, or damage to the spine because of trauma.
Who Needs Thoracic Fusion Surgery?
If you feel the following symptoms, then you may need Thoracic Fusion Surgery
- Severe neck pain.
- Pain that radiates up and down from the shoulders to the arm.
- Compromised movement.
- Problems with lifting.
- Disorientation while walking.
- Muscle spasms.
How is Thoracic Fusion Surgery Performed?
The competent and board-certified neuro-spine surgeons at Complete Medical Wellness (CMW) perform thoracic spine fusion through a minimally invasive procedure. During the procedure, specialists make small incisions and use specialized instruments that help keep the damage to the muscles, nerves, and tissue to the minimum.
Thoracic spinal fusion is performed by the most experienced and professional spine surgeons in New Jersey (NJ).
- The patient is given general anesthesia, the surgeons procure a bone graft from the bone bank or from the patient’s own body, then place the bones grafts in the area where the spinal fusion is needed, often the surgeon secures the graft with screws.
- The bone graft is placed and secured through tubular retractors, which are inserted in the body through small incisions. Once the fusion has been performed, the surgeon removes the retractors and closes the incisions.
- The spinal fusion surgery is a minimally invasive procedure; it heals quickly with the proper care.
- The surgeons will recommend a follow-up check after 4-6 weeks of the surgery, X-rays will be performed to monitor the progress of the fusion.
- The surgeons will recommend physical therapy 4-6 weeks after the surgery; physical therapy is ideal for increasing strength in the lower back and increasing the spinal range of movements.
Our board-certified neuro-spine surgeons will discuss your options with you and choose the one which is most effective for you.
Need help finding a doctor who gives you the best neuro spine care in New Jersey? Call us now and schedule your appointment today.
FAQ’S
What Happens After Thoracic Spinal Fusion Surgery?
- After successful thoracic spinal fusion, you will be required to stay at the medical facility for two or three days.
- You may experience some pain and discomfort during this period, but that can be easily controlled by medications.
Can You Live a Normal Life After Spinal Fusion?
- Yes, even people who undergo bigger spinal surgeries have a 90% chance of returning to work and stay at work for a long time.
- With a healthy lifestyle and following the rehabilitation course, you can expect to get back to work and ‘get your life back’ as well.
How Is the Fusion Progress Tracked After Surgery?
- When you meet your surgeon at follow up appointments, he will examine x-rays of your thoracic spine. Your surgeon will order x-rays at regular intervals to monitor the fusion and access your progress.
What Is the Success of Thoracic Fusion Surgery?
- The success rate of thoracic fusion surgery is 80 percent.
