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spinal fusion

spinal fusion is a surgery that joins (fuses) two or more vertebrae together. vertebrae are the 33 interlocking bones of the spinal column that are stacked on top of each other.

methods of doing spinal fusion may include:

  • using bone that is harvested from elsewhere in the body or is obtained from a bone bank. or sometimes human-made bone is used. this bone is used to make a "bridge" between adjoining vertebrae. this graft of bone stimulates the growth of new bone.
  • securing metal implants to the vertebrae to hold them together until new bone grows between the vertebrae.

the medical term for spinal fusion is arthrodesis.

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this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy. to learn more about healthwise, visit healthwise.org. © 1995-2022 healthwise, incorporated. healthwise, healthwise for every health decision, and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise, incorporated.

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