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Thoracic Spinal Fusion

Thoracic spine fusion is a surgical procedure in which two or more bones (vertebrae) of the thoracic spine are joined together to eliminate the movement between them. The thoracic spine is the center part of the spine and is formed of 12 vertebrae. Thoracic spine fusion is done by placing bone grafts or bone graft substitutes in between the affected vertebrae. This promotes bone growth and eventually fuses the vertebrae into a single, solid bone.

Spinal fusion surgery is recommended in certain conditions that cause persistent back pain even after conservative treatment. The surgery is indicated in the following conditions:

  • Injury or fracture of the vertebra
  • Instability of the spine caused by infections or tumors
  • Spondylolisthesis
  • Abnormal spinal curvature (kyphosis)
  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Spinal stenosis (combined with foraminotomy or laminotomy)

To perform a spinal fusion the spine may be approached and graft can be placed either from posterior approach (back), anterior approach (front) or a combination of both (anterior and posterior). Thoracic fusion is usually performed by posterior approach. The aim of the surgery is to fuse the two vertebrae into a single solid bone.

Posterior approach – The approach is made through the back while the patient lies on his or her stomach. The incision is made down the middle of the back.

Bone Grafting

Usually, small pieces of bone graft material are filled into the space between the vertebrae to promote bony fusion. A bone graft stimulates bone healing by increasing bone production.

Bone grafts can be taken from the patient's own hip bone. This is called as autograft. It can also be obtained from a donor (allograft). Several artificial bone grafts such as demineralized bone matrices (DBMs), bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), and ceramics may also be used.

Immobilization of the vertebrae after the surgery helps in the fusion process. Your surgeon may suggest a brace to be worn or internal fixation with plates, screws and rods may be done to hold the spine still.

Risks and Complications

It is important to be aware of the potential risks and complications before undergoing the surgery. As with any surgery, there are some possible complications after thoracic spinal surgery which includes:

  • Infection: Antibiotics will be prescribed before, during, and often after surgery to decrease the risk of infections.
  • Bleeding at the site of surgery
  • Persistent pain at bone graft site
  • Pseudarthrosis: This is a condition in which there is no enough amount of bone formed and this is more likely in patients who smoke
  • Nerve damage
  • Formation of blood clots in the legs

The recovery period for spinal fusion varies among individuals and depending on the procedure. You may need to stay in the hospital for 3 to 4 days after surgery. You will be given pain medicines in the hospital and will be taught about the right way of mobilization, postures while sitting, standing, and walking. You may have to wear a brace or a cast when you leave the hospital.

You can resume normal daily activities only after 2-3 weeks of rest period during which the spine heals. Follow your doctor's instructions and maintain a healthy lifestyle to achieve better outcomes.