Our Summary

This study reviewed the results of different minimally invasive surgeries (MIS) to treat degenerative spinal conditions. The researchers looked at 23 studies that reported on the alignment of the spine after luminary fusion surgery, with a particular focus on whether the surgery could correct the curve of the spine (lordosis).

They found that across all the studies, the curve of the spine increased on average by 3.4 degrees after surgery. The curve of individual spinal segments also increased on average by 4 degrees. Interestingly, they found that patients who had less curve in their spine before surgery were more likely to see a greater increase in the curve after surgery.

The researchers concluded that minimally invasive surgeries can indeed affect the alignment of the spine and the curve of individual spinal segments. Only two study groups showed a decrease in spinal curve after surgery, suggesting that these procedures can be effective in improving spine alignment.

FAQs

  1. Can minimally invasive surgeries correct the curve of the spine?
  2. What is the average increase in spinal curve after minimally invasive surgery?
  3. Are patients with less curve in their spine before surgery more likely to see a greater increase in curve after surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about spinal fusion is to follow a proper post-operative rehabilitation program to promote healing and improve outcomes. This may include physical therapy, gentle exercises, and following any restrictions or guidelines provided by the surgeon. It is important to adhere to these recommendations to ensure a successful recovery and optimize the alignment of the spine.

Suitable For

Patients with degenerative spinal conditions such as degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, and spinal fractures are typically recommended spinal fusion surgery. Additionally, patients who have not responded to conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, and injections may also be candidates for spinal fusion surgery. Patients with severe back or leg pain, weakness, numbness, and difficulty walking may also benefit from spinal fusion surgery to stabilize the spine and alleviate symptoms.

Timeline

Before spinal fusion surgery, a patient typically experiences chronic back pain, limited mobility, and possibly numbness or weakness in the legs. They may have tried conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, and injections without significant improvement.

After spinal fusion surgery, the patient will go through a recovery period that involves pain management, physical therapy, and gradually increasing activity levels. The fusion process can take several months to fully complete, during which time the patient may still experience some discomfort and limitations in movement. Over time, as the spine heals and fuses together, the patient should experience a reduction in pain and an improvement in mobility. It may take up to a year for the patient to fully recover and experience the full benefits of the surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about spinal fusion include:

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with spinal fusion surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery process after spinal fusion surgery?
  3. What type of physical therapy or rehabilitation will be needed after surgery?
  4. Will I have restrictions on physical activity or movement after surgery?
  5. How long will the effects of the surgery last, and will I need additional treatments in the future?
  6. What are the success rates of spinal fusion surgery for my specific condition?
  7. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that I should consider before proceeding with surgery?
  8. How will the surgery affect the alignment of my spine and individual spinal segments?
  9. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes after surgery to maintain the results?
  10. Can you provide me with information on the specific techniques and technologies you will use during the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Uribe JS, Myhre SL, Youssef JA. Journal: Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2016 Apr;41 Suppl 8:S50-8. doi: 10.1097/BRS.0000000000001470. PMID: 26825789