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Lumbar Fusion Surgery in India

Expert lumbar spinal fusion surgery at Arthros Center, Patna. Advanced treatment for chronic lower back pain, spinal instability, and degenerative disc disease.

Overview

Lumbar fusion surgery, also known as lumbar spinal fusion or spondylodesis, is a major surgical procedure that permanently joins two or more vertebrae in the lower back to eliminate motion between them. At Arthros Center in Patna, Bihar, we specialize in treating severe chronic lower back pain, spinal instability, spondylolisthesis, degenerative disc disease, and spinal deformities that have not responded to conservative treatments. The lumbar spine consists of five vertebrae (L1-L5) in the lower back. When these vertebrae or the discs between them become damaged due to injury, degeneration, or disease, they can cause severe pain, nerve compression, and functional disability. Lumbar fusion eliminates painful motion at the affected segment while maintaining overall spinal stability. Dr. Kumar and his specialized spine surgery team have successfully performed over 280 lumbar fusion procedures with a 92% patient satisfaction rate. Our approach combines modern surgical techniques including minimally invasive methods, advanced imaging guidance, and biologics to promote faster bone healing and optimal outcomes. **When is Lumbar Fusion Surgery Needed?** This surgery is typically recommended when conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, epidural injections, and lifestyle modifications have failed to provide adequate relief after 6-12 months. Common conditions requiring lumbar fusion include degenerative disc disease causing chronic mechanical back pain, spondylolisthesis (vertebral slippage) with nerve compression, spinal stenosis with instability, failed previous back surgery (revision fusion), traumatic fractures requiring stabilization, and scoliosis or kyphosis causing progressive deformity. **Types of Lumbar Fusion Techniques** At Arthros Center, we offer multiple fusion approaches tailored to each patient's specific condition: 1. **PLIF (Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion)**: Approach from the back with removal of the disc and insertion of bone graft cages between vertebrae. 2. **TLIF (Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion)**: One-sided approach that preserves more back muscles and ligaments - our most commonly performed technique. 3. **ALIF (Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion)**: Approach from the front of the abdomen, ideal for L5-S1 fusion with less muscle damage. 4. **MIS Fusion (Minimally Invasive)**: Uses smaller incisions and specialized retractors for faster recovery - available for select patients. **The Fusion Process** Spinal fusion uses bone graft material (your own bone, donor bone, or synthetic bone substitute) placed between vertebrae. Metal screws, rods, and cages hold the vertebrae in the correct position while the bone graft heals. Over 3-6 months, the bone grows and fuses the vertebrae into a single solid bone, eliminating motion at that segment. **Why Choose Arthros Center for Lumbar Fusion?** Our center offers specialized spine surgery expertise with fellowship-trained surgeons, advanced intraoperative navigation and imaging for precise screw placement, comprehensive pre-operative evaluation including psychological screening, multimodal pain management protocols for better recovery, dedicated spine physical therapy program, and affordable treatment under PMJAY and BSKY schemes. **Success Outcomes** Most patients experience significant pain reduction (60-80% improvement), improved quality of life and functional capacity, successful return to work and daily activities, and solid fusion with stable spine. Success rates are highest when proper patient selection criteria are followed. **Cost and Accessibility** Lumbar fusion surgery in India costs between ₹2,50,000-₹6,00,000 depending on the number of levels fused, technique used (open vs MIS), and implant type. At Arthros Center, we accept PMJAY (Ayushman Bharat) and BSKY coverage, making this life-changing surgery accessible to economically weaker sections of Bihar society.

Symptoms & Indications

This surgery may be recommended if you experience:

Chronic lower back pain lasting more than 6 months despite conservative treatment

Pain radiating down one or both legs (sciatica) with numbness or tingling

Weakness in legs or feet affecting walking and balance

Back pain that worsens with movement, bending, or prolonged standing

Loss of bladder or bowel control in severe cases (medical emergency)

Visible spinal deformity or progressive curvature

Inability to perform daily activities due to back pain

Pain relief when lying down but worsening when upright

Muscle spasms in the lower back

Progressive neurological symptoms despite conservative care

Procedure Details

Duration

2-4 hours depending on number of levels fused

Anesthesia

General anesthesia with endotracheal intubation

Preparation for Surgery

Comprehensive evaluation including MRI, CT scan, and X-rays. Pre-operative medical clearance and optimization of chronic conditions. Patients should stop smoking at least 4 weeks before surgery. Blood tests and cardiac evaluation as needed.

Surgical Steps

1

General anesthesia administered with patient positioned face-down on specialized frame

2

Surgical incision made in the midline or side of lower back (3-8 inches depending on technique)

3

Careful muscle dissection using retractors to expose the affected vertebrae

4

Removal of damaged disc material and decompression of pinched nerves if needed

5

Preparation of vertebral endplates to promote bone growth

6

Insertion of bone graft cage filled with bone material between vertebrae

7

Placement of pedicle screws into vertebrae above and below the fusion site

8

Connection of screws with titanium rods to stabilize the spine

9

X-ray imaging to confirm proper hardware position

10

Additional bone graft placed around the fusion site to enhance healing

11

Hemostasis achieved and drain tube placed to prevent fluid collection

12

Layer-by-layer closure of muscles, fascia, and skin

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this procedure

Q1.How successful is lumbar fusion surgery?

Lumbar fusion has 70-90% success rates when performed for appropriate conditions. At Arthros Center, 92% of our patients report significant pain reduction and improved quality of life. Success depends on proper patient selection, surgical technique, and post-operative rehabilitation compliance.

Q2.Will I be able to bend and move normally after fusion?

Most patients retain 70-80% of their normal range of motion. Single-level fusion has minimal impact on flexibility, while multi-level fusion may cause more noticeable restriction. The adjacent spinal segments compensate for the fused area. Most daily activities including walking, light exercise, and driving are possible.

Q3.What is the difference between TLIF, PLIF, and ALIF?

TLIF approaches from one side, preserving more muscle and ligaments. PLIF approaches from both sides directly from the back. ALIF approaches from the front through the abdomen. We select the technique based on your specific pathology, previous surgeries, and anatomy. TLIF is our most common choice for first-time surgery.

Q4.How long does it take for the bones to fuse completely?

Solid fusion typically takes 6-12 months. You will see progressive bone growth on X-rays at 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months. A CT scan at 6-12 months confirms complete fusion. Most patients feel significant improvement in pain long before fusion is complete, as the hardware provides immediate stability.

Q5.Can lumbar fusion fail or need revision?

Non-union (failure to fuse) occurs in 5-10% of cases, higher in smokers. Adjacent segment disease can develop years later. Hardware failure or loosening is rare with modern implants. At Arthros Center, we minimize risks through precise surgical technique, biologics use, and careful patient selection. Revision surgery is successful in most cases when needed.

Q6.Is minimally invasive lumbar fusion available?

Yes, we offer MIS (minimally invasive spine) fusion for selected patients. Benefits include smaller incisions, less muscle damage, reduced blood loss, and faster recovery. However, not all patients are candidates - complex deformities or revision cases typically require open surgery. We discuss the best approach for your specific condition during consultation.

Q7.Will I set off metal detectors after lumbar fusion?

Yes, the titanium screws and rods may trigger airport metal detectors. We provide a medical implant card that you can show to security personnel. Modern titanium is MRI-compatible, so you can safely undergo MRI scans in the future if needed. The metal is completely safe and will not cause any problems in daily life.

Q8.Can I drive and return to work after lumbar fusion?

Driving is typically allowed at 4-6 weeks once you are off strong pain medications and can react quickly. Desk jobs: return at 6-8 weeks. Light labor: 8-12 weeks. Heavy manual labor: 3-6 months. We provide individualized work restrictions and communicate with your employer if needed.

Q9.Is lumbar fusion surgery covered under PMJAY/BSKY?

Yes, lumbar spinal fusion is covered under both PMJAY (Ayushman Bharat) and BSKY schemes at Arthros Center, Patna. Eligible patients can receive treatment at minimal or no cost. Our dedicated team assists with all documentation and claim processing to ensure smooth access to these government healthcare benefits.

Q10.What are the risks and complications of lumbar fusion?

Risks include infection (2-4%), nerve injury causing weakness or numbness (1-2%), non-union/failed fusion (5-10%), adjacent segment disease years later, blood clots, and dural tear. At Arthros Center, we minimize risks through meticulous surgical technique, antibiotic prophylaxis, and comprehensive post-operative monitoring. Most patients experience successful outcomes with significant symptom improvement.

Considering This Surgery?

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