What is spinal fusion?
Spinal fusion is a surgery that permanently joins two or more vertebrae so they heal into one solid segment of bone. By stopping motion at a painful or unstable level, fusion can relieve pain and stabilize the spine. It's often paired with a decompression — removing bone or disc material pressing on the nerves — so the spine is both relieved and stabilized.
Our neurosurgeons — Dr. Perry Argires, Dr. Steven Falowski, and Dr. Jeffrey Arle — perform fusion using modern techniques, including minimally invasive approaches when appropriate.
Conditions that may need fusion
- Spinal instability — when vertebrae move more than they should.
- Spondylolisthesis — a vertebra that has slipped out of position.
- Scoliosis or spinal deformity requiring correction and stabilization.
- Certain fractures and severe degenerative disc disease or stenosis after decompression.
Is fusion always necessary?
No — and that's an important point. Fusion is reserved for specific problems, usually instability or deformity, and only after non-surgical care has been tried. Many spine conditions never require fusion, and for some patients a motion-preserving artificial disc replacement may be an alternative. Our surgeons will explain whether fusion is the right tool for your situation.
What to expect
Because the bone needs time to fuse, recovery is gradual and depends on how many levels are involved and the technique used. Your surgeon will walk you through the approach, the risks and benefits, and a recovery plan tailored to you.
Request an appointment or call (717) 358-0800 to discuss whether spinal fusion is right for you.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What is spinal fusion?
Spinal fusion is a surgery that permanently joins two or more vertebrae so they heal into a single, solid bone. By eliminating motion at a painful or unstable segment, fusion can relieve pain and stabilize the spine. It is often combined with decompression to relieve pressure on the nerves.
What conditions does spinal fusion treat?
Fusion may be used for spinal instability, spondylolisthesis (slipped vertebra), scoliosis or spinal deformity, some fractures, and cases of severe degenerative disc disease or stenosis where the spine needs to be stabilized after decompression.
Is spinal fusion always necessary?
No. Fusion is reserved for specific problems — usually instability or deformity — and only after conservative care has been tried. Many spine conditions are treated without fusion, and in some cases motion-preserving options such as artificial disc replacement may be considered.
How long is recovery after spinal fusion?
Recovery is gradual because the bone needs time to fuse, and it varies by the number of levels and the technique used. Your surgeon will provide a specific plan. Call Argires Specialty Group at (717) 358-0800 to discuss your options in Lancaster, PA.
Told you might need spine surgery?
Get an expert opinion on whether fusion — or a less-invasive option — is right for you. Schedule a consultation or second opinion today.
Request an Appointment Call (717) 358-0800