Medical Encyclopedia
Spinal fusion - series: Indications
Spinal fusion is a surgical technique in which one or more vertebrae are fused together to stop the motion between them.
Spinal fusion may be recommended for:
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Abnormal curvature of the spine (scoliosis or kyphosis)
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Injury to the spinal vertebrae
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Protrusion of the cushioning disk between vertebrae (slipped disk, herniated nucleus pulposus)
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Weak or unstable spine caused by infections or tumors
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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