Posterior Spinal Fusion
Fusion from the back of the spine across one or more levels — for instability, spondylolisthesis, and deformity.
Posterior Spinal Fusion
Structural stabilisation from the posterior approach — the most versatile fusion technique in spine surgery.
The workhorse procedure for spinal instability. Recovery longer than decompression alone. Fusion consolidation takes three to six months — but the structural result is lasting.
What Is It?
Accesses the spine from the back to place pedicle screws, rods, and bone graft across the target levels. Can address instability at a single or multiple levels, and is often combined with decompression. The most widely applicable spinal fusion approach.
Before Surgery
MRI, CT, and standing X-rays reviewed. Medical clearance required. Smoking cessation essential — it directly reduces fusion rates. Pre-operative navigation planning for multi-level cases.
During Surgery
General anaesthesia. Midline incision, muscle retraction, pedicle screw and rod placement under navigation guidance. Bone graft placed at target levels. Decompression performed simultaneously where indicated.
After Surgery
Hospital stay: three to five days. Walking with assistance day one. Wound care instructions provided at discharge. Brace for six to twelve weeks depending on extent.
Recovery
Desk work: six to eight weeks. Physical activity: three to six months. Return to manual work: four to six months. Imaging at three and six months confirms fusion progress.
Dr. Viswanath's Approach
The posterior approach allows both decompression and stabilisation in a single procedure. Navigation-guided screw placement used for all cases. Level and technique determined by the specific pathology and anatomy.
Questions about
posterior spinal fusion?
A pre-operative consultation will answer everything before anything is scheduled.