Lumbar fusion
Why a lumbar fusion?
A lumbar fusion is performed in patients with severe wear or degeneration of the intervertebral discs on the lower back or with abnormalities of the vertebrae themselves. Removal of a disc herniation may also prompt this procedure.
Lumbar disc hernia (low back hernia)
Disc degeneration
Spinal stenosis
Intervention
During the procedure, screws, bone grafts and cages are placed. The screws provide stability until the bone tents have grown together. The loss of range of motion is usually limited. The surgeon often creates a bone graft using bone that was removed locally in the back.
Recovery
Try to walk more gradually during the first few days and alternate different postures. Daily activities are best mixed with a lot of rest.
After this procedure, you can follow an orthopaedic rehabilitation program. The goal during rehabilitation is to return to your normal (work) rhythm as soon as possible.
Departments
For more information, contact the orthopaedics department.