Medical Encyclopedia

Medical Encyclopedia

Spinal fusion - series: Normal anatomy

 Normal anatomy

Spinal fusion - series
Illustrations:

  • Normal anatomy
  • Indications
  • Incision
  • Procedure: Posterolateral gutter fusion
  • Interbody cage fusion
  • Pedicle screw

    • The vertebrae are the bones that make up the spinal column, which surrounds and protects the spinal cord. The intervertebral disks are soft tissues that sit between each vertebrae and act as cushions between vertebrae, and absorb energy while the spinal column flexes, extends, and twists. Nerves from the spinal cord exit the spinal column between each vertebra.

    Update Date: 12/12/2008

    Updated by: A.D.A.M. Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, Greg Juhn, MTPW, David R. Eltz. Previously reviewed by Thomas N. Joseph, MD, Private Practice specializing in Orthopaedics, subspecialty Foot and Ankle, Camden Bone & Joint, Camden, SC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (5/12/2008).

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