Spinal fusion helps to correct problems caused by a damaged or herniated disc by removing the offending disc material and inserting bone or a bone graft into the newly created space. When all goes as planned, the bone graft will fuse with the vertebrae above and below it to strengthen the spinal column and prevent painful movement at the segment. And while this process goes as expected most of the time, one thing spine specialists have to work to avoid is an issue called pseudarthrosis. Below, we take a closer look at what pseudarthrosis is, what can cause it and how Dr. Jackman and his team work to avoid it.
What Is Pseudarthrosis?
Pseudarthrosis is a complication following spinal fusion surgery in which the bone or bone graft inserted during surgery doesn’t end up fusing to the adjacent vertebrae as expected. It is one of the more common complications associated with spinal fusion, but it’s still pretty rare on a case to case basis.
So while the condition develops as a result of a failed fusion between bones, what risk factors can contribute to a decreased likelihood of expected fusion? The most common risk factor associated with pseudarthrosis is smoking. Medical data suggests that nicotine can inhibit bone-producing cells (called osteoblasts) from being able to produce new bone as easily. Other risk factors that can either inhibit osteoblast production or increase your risk of a failed fusion include:
- Malnutrition
- Obesity
- Osteoporosis
- Diabetes
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Patients who take oral steroids or NSAIDs
- Older individuals
- Too much activity before enough healing has taken place
Preventing Pseudarthrosis
Prevention is much preferred to treatment when it comes to pseudarthrosis, as treatment typically requires a revisional procedure. To prevent the need for a second operation and to ensure that healing goes as expected, Dr. Jackman and his team work diligently to help reduce your risk of pseudarthrosis following a fusion procedure. Many of the prevention techniques are based on mitigating the previously listed risk factors, like:
- Give Up Smoking – Kicking your smoking habit can help improve osteoblast function.
- Weight Loss – Working towards a healthy weight can also promote ideal bone fusion.
- Underlying Condition Management – Doing what you can to treat or control the effects of underlying health conditions like diabetes or arthritis can also lower your risk of pseudarthrosis.
- Gradual Return To Activity – Working with a physical therapist and gradually returning to physical activity can help reduce your risk of pseudarthrosis.
If you have been told that a spinal fusion procedure may be in your future, connect with a team who will do everything they can to ensure that your operation and recovery go as planned. For more information, or to talk to a neck and spine specialist in your area, reach out to Dr. Jackman and the team at The Midwest Spine & Brain Institute today.
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