WHAT IS MULTI LEVEL FUSION SURGERY
Multi Level fusion Surgery is a surgical procedure which is done to block the motion through as well as around the disc space. This is done by the formation of a bone bridge from one vertebra to the next. This procedure is done for those spinal conditions that cause severe back pain. There is a lot of controversy related to this procedure as the success rate on eliminating the pain the patient is suffering is quite low.
Multi Level Fusion Surgery Process
The fusion process can be done in a number of ways namely:
- Interbody Fusion: This is a procedure where the fusion is done through the disc space. This procedure is done through several approaches namely:
- ALIF or Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion
- XLIF or Extreme Lateral Interbody Fusion
- TLIF or Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion
- PLIF or Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion
- Posterolateral fusion: This is a procedure which is done through the back. This operative procedure is done with the aim of connecting portions in the posterior of the spine. This procedure is also known as facet fusion.
The technique that is used for this multi level fusion is similar to the single level fusion procedure. And the menu for the operation are cages as well as bone graft options.
Multi Level Fusion Recovery
The recovery time period for a multi level fusion is quite long as compared to single level fusion. However, if a minimally invasive technique is used the recovery period may be fairly shorter at around 6 to 8 weeks. However, if the surgery is done for severe spinal deformities like scoliosis or scheuermanns kyphosis, the patient may require 6 months or more for maximal recovery.
Usually, the doctors restrict the patient from performing activities like bending, twisting as well as lifting objects for the first six weeks.