Lumbar Fusion Procedure

Why Lumbar Fusion May Be Needed

The lumbar spine, or lower back, is made up of five vertebrae separated by discs that act as cushions and allow for flexible movement.

When a disc becomes damaged due to injury, arthritis, or degenerative disease, it can lead to inflammation, nerve compression, and instability.

Lumbar fusion may be recommended for conditions such as:

• Degenerative disc disease
• Spinal instability or spondylolisthesis
• Herniated discs that have not responded to other treatments
• Spinal stenosis causing nerve pain or weakness
• Fractures or trauma to the spine
• Spinal deformities, such as scoliosis

By fusing the affected vertebrae, the procedure helps stabilize the spine and reduce pain caused by abnormal motion or nerve irritation.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Lumbar fusion is typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision in your back or abdomen, depending on the approach. The damaged disc material is removed, and bone graft material is placed between the affected vertebrae.

In many cases, metal screws, rods, or cages are used to hold the spine in place while the bone heals and fuses naturally over time.

There are several surgical techniques used in lumbar fusion, including:

• Posterior lumbar fusion (PLF) – performed through the back
• Anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) – performed through the abdomen
• Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) – a minimally invasive approach from the side of the spine

Your surgeon will determine the best method based on your specific condition, anatomy, and overall health.

Recovery and Results

Recovery from lumbar fusion varies from patient to patient. Most people stay in the hospital for one to three days after surgery.

You may need a back brace for support and physical therapy to help restore strength and mobility.

Initial healing usually takes several weeks, but full fusion and recovery may take several months. During this time, it is important to follow your care team’s instructions regarding activity restrictions, medications, and follow-up appointments.

Many patients experience significant pain relief and improved function after surgery. While lumbar fusion does limit motion at the fused segment, it often allows for greater overall mobility because the pain from the affected joint is eliminated.

Why Choose Impact Medical Group

At Impact Medical Group, we believe in treating the whole patient, not just the condition. Our multidisciplinary team works together to provide advanced diagnostics, personalized care plans, and comprehensive post-surgical rehabilitation. If lumbar fusion is the right option for you, we will guide you through every step of the process with compassion and clinical excellence.

Your comfort, recovery, and long-term wellness are our top priorities. We are committed to making sure you feel supported and informed throughout your treatment journey.