Spinal Fusion Surgery to Stabilize and Support Your Spine
When the spine becomes unstable, severely degenerated, or significantly misaligned, spinal fusion surgery can help restore stability, relieve nerve pressure, and reduce pain. Dr. Jeffrey A. Moore offers modern fusion techniques in Oklahoma City with a focus on safety, precision, and function.
- Spinal instability
- Advanced degeneration
- Severe stenosis
- Adult scoliosis & deformity
Fusion is never recommended lightly. Dr. Moore takes time to explain why fusion is or is not appropriate for your specific condition.
What Is Spinal Fusion?
Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure that permanently joins two or more vertebrae together so they heal into one solid bone. The goal is to stop painful or abnormal motion between those vertebrae and create a more stable, balanced segment of the spine.
During a fusion, Dr. Moore typically removes damaged disc material and any bone spurs or thickened ligaments that are compressing nerves. Bone graft and specialized implants (such as screws, rods, and cages) are then used to hold the spine in a better alignment while the bone heals.
Over time, your body’s own healing response bridges the vertebrae together. Once fusion is complete, the motion at that level is significantly reduced or eliminated, which can help relieve pain caused by instability or deformity.
Types of Spinal Fusion Procedures
The spine can be fused through a variety of approaches. The best option for you depends on the location of the problem (neck, mid-back, low back), your specific anatomy, and the goals of surgery.
Often performed as an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF), where a damaged disc is removed from the front of the neck and the vertebrae above and below are fused to treat arm pain, weakness, or spinal cord compression.
Targets unstable or severely degenerated segments in the lower back. May be performed from the back, side, or front of the spine, depending on your anatomy and goals of surgery.
Involves removing the disc between two vertebrae and placing bone graft and a spacer or cage into that space to restore height and support better alignment while fusion occurs.
Uses smaller incisions and specialized instruments or tubular retractors to place screws, rods, and interbody cages with less disruption to muscle and soft tissue than traditional open approaches.
For adult scoliosis and complex deformities, fusion can be combined with careful realignment techniques to improve balance and reduce pain and fatigue.
In some cases, prior spine surgery may fail or need to be adjusted. Revision fusion procedures are more complex and require detailed planning and evaluation.
Risks, Recovery, and What to Expect
Like any major surgery, spinal fusion carries risks, including infection, bleeding, issues with wound healing, hardware problems, and limited improvement or persistence of some symptoms. There is also a chance of developing increased wear at levels above or below the fusion over time.
After surgery, you’ll gradually return to walking and light activities as directed. Physical therapy is often recommended to help build strength, improve posture, and protect the fusion while it heals.
Full fusion can take several months. During this time, it’s important to follow restrictions such as limiting heavy lifting, bending, and twisting, and to attend follow-up visits so Dr. Moore can monitor your healing.
Is Spinal Fusion the Right Choice for Me?
Spinal fusion is usually considered only after conservative treatments have not provided enough relief and when imaging studies show a clear structural problem that fusion can address.
During your consultation, Dr. Moore will:
- Review your MRI, CT, or X-rays and prior records when available.
- Listen to your symptoms and how they affect your day-to-day life.
- Perform a focused spine and neurologic exam.
- Explain whether fusion is recommended, and why.
- Discuss non-surgical and alternative options if they are reasonable choices.
The goal is for you to walk away with a clear understanding of your condition and the pros and cons of each treatment path — not a one-size-fits-all answer.
Ready to Talk About Spinal Fusion?
If you’ve been told you might need a fusion or you’re not sure whether it’s truly necessary, a consultation with Dr. Moore can help you get clarity and explore your options.
- Second opinions for complex spine and fusion cases.
- Review of prior surgeries and imaging when available.
- Personalized plan focused on safety, stability, and function.