Lumbar Spinal Fusion

Overview

Lumbar spinal fusion is back surgery that permanently connects two or more bones (vertebrae) in your spine. Extra bone is placed between the vertebrae (bone graft), and may be held in place with screws or rods. Over time, the vertebrae grow together (fuse). Spinal fusion can improve your spine's stability, correct a deformity and reduce pain.

Why choose Mayo Clinic

• Experience. Each year, Mayo Clinic orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons perform hundreds of spinal fusions.
• Advanced techniques. Mayo Clinic patients have access to the latest imaging technology for spinal surgery. State-of-the-art MRIs help Mayo specialists precisely diagnose your back problems. During spine surgery Mayo specialists use CT scans and sophisticated image guidance to determine where screws should be placed. Mayo surgeons are committed to using minimally invasive procedures when possible, to speed your recovery.
• Team approach. People who need spinal fusion sometimes need other types of back surgery at the same time. Mayo Clinic's integrated practice gives you access to all the experts needed to solve your problems.
• Efficient care. In many cases you can be evaluated and have surgery in just a few days.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., is ranked among the Best Hospitals for neurology and neurosurgery and for orthopedics by U.S. News & World Report. Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Ariz., and Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Fla., are ranked high performing for neurology and neurosurgery and for orthopedics by U.S. News & World Report. Mayo Clinic also ranks among the Best Children's Hospitals for neurology and neurosurgery and for orthopedics.

Read more about spinal fusion at MayoClinic.com.