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Lumbar Spinal Fusion Surgery in India

Surgical procedure to permanently connect two or more vertebrae in lower back

Overview

Lumbar Spinal Fusion is a surgical procedure designed to permanently join two or more vertebrae in the lower back (lumbar spine) to eliminate painful motion between vertebral segments. This procedure is recommended for patients suffering from debilitating back pain, spinal instability, or nerve compression that has not responded to conservative treatments. At Arthroscenter, Dr. Gurudeo Kumar has extensive experience in performing complex lumbar fusion surgeries using advanced techniques including minimally invasive approaches, TLIF (Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion), PLIF (Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion), and instrumented fusion with pedicle screws and rods. Our facility in Bihar is equipped with state-of-the-art navigation systems and intraoperative imaging to ensure precise implant placement and optimal outcomes. During spinal fusion, bone graft material (from your own body, donor bone, or synthetic bone substitute) is placed between the vertebrae to promote bone growth and fusion. Metal implants including screws, rods, and cages are used to hold the vertebrae in the correct position while fusion occurs over 3-6 months. The goal is to create a solid bridge of bone that eliminates painful motion while maintaining as much spinal flexibility as possible. The success rate of lumbar fusion surgery for appropriate candidates exceeds 85%, with most patients experiencing significant pain relief and improved function. Dr. Gurudeo Kumar works closely with spine rehabilitation specialists to develop comprehensive recovery programs that optimize surgical outcomes and help patients return to active lifestyles.

Symptoms & Indications

This surgery may be recommended if you experience:

Chronic lower back pain lasting more than 6 months

Pain radiating down one or both legs (sciatica)

Numbness or tingling in legs or feet

Weakness in legs or difficulty walking

Spinal instability or abnormal movement between vertebrae

Pain worsening with activity or standing

Failed conservative treatments (physical therapy, medications, injections)

Degenerative disc disease with severe disc collapse

Spondylolisthesis (vertebra slipping forward)

Spinal deformity (scoliosis or kyphosis) causing pain

Procedure Details

Duration

2-4 hours (depending on number of levels)

Anesthesia

General Anesthesia

Preparation for Surgery

Comprehensive spine imaging (MRI, CT, X-rays). Pre-operative medical clearance. Discussion of fusion levels and surgical approach. Smoking cessation and nutrition optimization.

Surgical Steps

1

General anesthesia is administered

2

Patient is positioned (prone or lateral depending on approach)

3

Incision is made over the affected spinal levels

4

Muscles are retracted to access the spine

5

Damaged disc material is removed (discectomy)

6

Bone graft is placed in the disc space or between vertebrae

7

Pedicle screws are inserted into vertebrae

8

Rods connect the screws to stabilize the spine

9

Interbody cages may be inserted for additional support

10

Final X-rays confirm proper implant placement

11

Incision is closed in layers with drains if needed

Recovery Timeline

What to expect during your recovery journey

Week 1-2

Hospital Stay

Pain management, gentle mobilization with assistance. Walking with walker. Deep breathing exercises. Wound care.

Week 2-6

Early Recovery

Gradual increase in walking. Avoid bending, lifting, twisting. May wear back brace. Follow spinal precautions strictly.

Week 6-12

Progressive Rehabilitation

Physical therapy begins. Core strengthening exercises. Increase daily activities. Imaging to assess fusion progress.

Month 3-6

Active Rehabilitation

Advanced strengthening program. Return to light work duties. Continued spine protection strategies.

Month 6-12

Fusion Completion

Bone fusion usually complete. Return to most activities. Ongoing exercise program for spine health.

Tips for Faster Recovery

Follow log-rolling technique when getting in/out of bed

Avoid bending, lifting over 5kg, or twisting for 3 months

Wear back brace as prescribed

Quit smoking - it impairs bone fusion

Maintain healthy weight

Do core strengthening exercises daily

Attend all physical therapy sessions

Report any signs of infection or hardware issues

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this procedure

Q1.How long does lumbar fusion surgery take?

The surgery typically takes 2-4 hours depending on the number of spinal levels being fused. Single-level fusion takes less time than multi-level procedures.

Q2.Will I be able to bend after spinal fusion?

You will regain most of your flexibility. While the fused segment won't move, adjacent segments compensate. Most patients can perform normal daily activities including bending, though extreme movements may be limited.

Q3.How successful is lumbar fusion surgery?

At Arthroscenter, the success rate is over 85% for appropriate candidates. Success depends on proper patient selection, surgical technique, and commitment to rehabilitation.

Q4.When can I return to work after fusion surgery?

Desk jobs: 6-8 weeks. Moderate physical work: 3-4 months. Heavy labor: 6-12 months. The timeline varies based on the number of levels fused and your occupation.

Q5.What are the risks of spinal fusion?

Risks include infection, nerve injury, hardware failure, non-union (failure to fuse), and adjacent segment disease. Dr. Gurudeo Kumar uses advanced techniques to minimize these risks.

Considering This Surgery?

Book an online video consultation with Dr. Gurudeo Kumar for just ₹999 and get all your questions answered