When the intervertebral discs are too thin, they are no longer good shock absorbers. In a lumbar fusion, the damaged vertebrae are removed.
The vertebral column consists for a fourth part of intervertebral discs, which serve as shock absorbers for the spine and as protection for the vertebrae, the spinal cord and other structures. Sometimes, however, the intervertebral discs can deteriorate and become thinner. This brings the vertebrae supported by the intervertebral discs closer together and can pinch the intervening nerves.
In severe cases, the discs are removed and replaced with your own bone material taken from the pelvis. This will be spinal fusion called. Many doctors choose to approach the affected vertebrae from the abdomen, first moving the intestines and other organs to the side to expose the spine. After this, the damaged intervertebral disc is removed.
Openings are drilled in the surrounding vertebrae that are slightly wider than the removed intervertebral disc. Taking it out of the pelvis bone material is placed in titanium ‘cages’, which are placed in the openings. In the bone, special cells called osteocytes make new bone, which promotes the recovery of the surgical site. The openings in these ‘cages’ allow the growth of the bone around them. The ‘cages’ also provide support and structure to the healing bone.
After 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year and 2 years x-rays made to ensure that the new bone heals properly.
