There isn’t a strict age limit.
Young patients: Spinal fusion is performed in children and adolescents, especially for severe scoliosis or other congenital deformities.
Older patients: Age alone isn’t typically a barrier, but overall health, co-existing medical conditions (like heart disease, diabetes), and bone density are crucial factors. Older patients may have a longer recovery or higher risk of complications. Your surgeon will assess your individual health status to determine if you are a suitable candidate.
Risks and Complications:
What are the potential risks and complications of spinal fusion?
Like any major surgery, spinal fusion carries risks, which can include:
Infection: At the surgical site.
Bleeding: During or after surgery.
Blood clots: In the legs (DVT) that can travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism).
Nerve damage: Can lead to weakness, numbness, paralysis, or persistent pain.
Spinal cord injury: Very rare but possible, leading to paralysis.
Failed fusion (pseudarthrosis): The bones do not successfully fuse, potentially leading to continued pain and requiring another surgery.
Pain at the bone graft site: If bone is taken from your hip (autograft).
Hardware problems: Screws or rods breaking or loosening.
Adjacent segment disease: Increased stress on the unfused segments of the spine above or below the fusion, potentially leading to degeneration and pain over time.
Anesthesia risks: Reactions to medication, breathing problems.
Bladder or bowel dysfunction: Temporary or, rarely, permanent.
Disc replacement surgery provides a less invasive alternative to spinal fusion surgery and protects against adjacent level degeneration.