Will spinal fusion surgery cause problems or degeneration in adjacent segments of the spine later on?

Yes, this is a known phenomenon called Adjacent Segment Disease (ASD). When a segment of the spine is fused, the motion that was previously distributed across the fused segment is transferred to the segments immediately above and below it. This increased stress can accelerate the wear and tear (degeneration) of these adjacent discs and joints, potentially leading to new pain or requiring further surgery in the future. The risk varies depending on factors like the number of levels fused, patient activity, and individual spinal mechanics.

Disc replacement surgery provides a less invasive alternative to spinal fusion surgery and protects against adjacent level degeneration.