Spinal Fusion

Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure to fuse (join) two or more vertebrae (spinal bones) permanently. Spinal fusion eliminates motion between your vertebrae, helping to relieve pain and stabilize your spine. It is commonly performed in the lumbar (lower back) and cervical (neck) regions and may involve the use of metal screws, rods, or bone grafts to support the fusion process as your bones heal.

UPMC offers the latest advancements in traditional and minimally invasive spinal fusion.

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What Is Spinal Fusion?

Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure to fuse (join) two or more vertebrae (spinal bones) permanently. Spinal fusion eliminates motion between your vertebrae, helping to relieve pain and stabilize your spine. It is commonly performed in the lumbar (lower back) and cervical (neck) regions and may involve the use of metal screws, rods, or bone grafts to support the fusion process as your bones heal.

Types of spinal fusion

There are various types of spinal fusion procedures based on your condition and the location of your affected vertebrae.

Types of spinal fusion include:

Dynamic lumbar spine stabilization

Also known as “soft fusion," this method uses flexible materials instead of rigid metal implants, allowing for greater movement than traditional fusion techniques.

Minimally invasive spinal fusion

Uses smaller incisions and specialized tools to reduce muscle disruption and speed up recovery.

Procedures include:

• XLIF (eXtreme Lateral Interbody Fusion) — A minimally invasive technique where your surgeon accesses your spine from the side.
• Posterior Cervical Discectomy with Fusion (PCDF) — Involves removing a damaged disc and fusing your spine through an incision in the back of your neck.
• Anterior Cervical Discectomy with Fusion (ACDF) — Involves removing a damaged disc and fusing your spine through an incision in the front of your neck.

Traditional open spinal fusion

Requires a larger incision, providing direct access to your spine but often leading to a longer recovery period.

Conditions we treat with spinal fusion

Spinal fusion surgery is used to treat various spinal conditions, including:

• Congenital spinal abnormalities.
• Degenerative disc disease.
• Scoliosis.
• Spinal infections.
• Spinal instability.
• Spinal stenosis.
• Spinal tumors.
• Spondylolisthesis.
• Vertebral fractures.

Why Would I Need Spinal Fusion?

You may need spinal fusion if you have:

• A progressive spinal deformity, such as scoliosis or spondylolisthesis.
• Chronic back or neck pain caused by spinal instability.
• Persistent pain despite nonsurgical treatment.
• Severe nerve compression leading to numbness, weakness, or tingling.

Who is a candidate for spinal fusion?

Candidates for spinal fusion typically experience persistent pain, instability, or neurological symptoms that have not improved with conservative treatments.

Alternatives to spinal fusion surgery

For some people, spinal fusion surgery may not be necessary. Alternative treatments include:

Surgical alternatives

• Foraminotomy — Widening of the spinal canal to reduce nerve compression.
• Kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty — Procedures to stabilize vertebral fractures.
• Laminectomy — Removal of part of your vertebra to relieve pressure.
• Microdiscectomy — Removal of a herniated disc fragment.

Nonsurgical alternatives

• Lifestyle modifications, such as weight management and posture correction.
• Pain management with medications.
• Physical therapy.
• Steroid injections.

What Are the Risks and Complications of Spinal Fusion?

As with any major surgery, spinal fusion carries potential risks, including:

• Anesthesia-related complications.
• Bleeding and blood clots.
• Infection at the incision site.
• Nerve damage.
• Nonunion (failure of your bones to fuse properly).
• Persistent or recurring symptoms.
• Reduced spinal flexibility.

What Should I Expect From Spinal Fusion?

Before: How to prepare for spinal fusion

Before spinal fusion, you will have a comprehensive evaluation, including:

• Blood and urine tests to assess your overall health.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) to evaluate your heart function.
• MRI or x-rays to provide detailed images of your spine.

To prepare for surgery, you should:

• Arrange for post-surgical care and transportation.
• Follow preoperative fasting guidelines.
• Inform your doctor about all medications and allergies.

On the day of your procedure, be sure to bring your photo ID and health insurance card(s). Leave valuables such as cash and jewelry at home.

After your procedure, you will need to stay in the hospital for 1-3 days. You should bring toiletries, a robe, slippers, a cell phone and charger, medications, and a change of clothes. You should also arrange for someone to drive you home from the hospital after you are discharged.

How long does spinal fusion take?

Spinal fusion typically takes 1-3 hours but could take longer, depending on the extent of your procedure.

During your spinal fusion

When you arrive at the hospital, you will meet with your care team for final preparations.

You will receive an IV and general anesthesia so you will sleep through the procedure.

After you are asleep, your surgeon will:

1. Make an incision to access your spine.
2. Remove all or part of your damaged disc.
3. Insert a bone graft into the empty disc space to facilitate spinal fusion.
4. Use metal hardware, such as screws, rods, or plates, to stabilize your spine.

After your procedure is complete, your surgeon will close your incision. You will then be monitored to ensure your condition is stable.

Recovery after spinal fusion

After your procedure is complete, you will be monitored in the recovery area as you wake up. Most people stay in the hospital for 1-3 days after surgery.

Pain management and physical therapy are essential parts of your recovery. You may need to wear a brace to support your spine during healing.

When to call your doctor about post-op problems

You should seek medical attention if you have:

• Difficulty walking or maintaining balance.
• Fever above 100.0°F.
• Increased pain, numbness, or weakness.
• Severe pain that does not improve with medication.
• Signs of infection at the incision site (redness, swelling, or drainage).

What’s the success rate of spinal fusion?

The success of spinal fusion surgery depends on your condition, the type of procedure performed, and adherence to post-surgical rehabilitation. Most people experience significant pain relief and improved spinal stability, allowing them to resume daily activities.

Why Choose UPMC for Spinal Fusion?

UPMC offers cutting-edge spinal fusion procedures performed by leading specialists. Our team utilizes the latest minimally invasive and robotic-assisted techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes. We provide comprehensive pre- and post-operative care to support recovery and improve your quality of life.

By UPMC Editorial Staff. Last reviewed on 2025-06-26.