Graft

In a fusion surgery, a bone is used to create a bridge between vertebrae for the purpose of immobilizing an area surrounding an impinged or irritated nerve root. The bone graft is implanted on the front, the back, or inside the body of the vertebra, usually with the aid of metal cages, screws, rods, or plates. Bone grafts take time to reach full effect; the graft itself does not provide the necessary stability. Rather, the bone graft serves as a “seed” that stimulates new bone growth. It often takes a year or more for the new bone to grow enough to lock, or fuse, the associated vertebrae together. Furthermore, there is never a guarantee that a bone graft will be successful.

Sources of Bone Graft Material

The use of a patient’s own bone tissue has proven to be the most effective way to ensure a successful fusion, but this method usually exposes the patient to additional pain from the separate operation to harvest bone for the graft. Types of bone graft material include:

• Autograft – bone matter that is taken from another region in the patient’s body, especially from the pelvis; also called autologous bone
• Allograft – bone tissue from a cadaver; stored in bone banks
• Bone substitutes – used as bone graft extenders, usually in conjunction with allograft
• Bone morphogenetic proteins – used to stimulate bone growth; naturally occurring in trace amounts

Minimally Invasive Alternative

Should surgery become an option, Laser Spine Institute offers a minimally invasive alternative to fusion and a bone graft. The orthopedic specialists at Laser Spine Institute use advanced, endoscopic technology to perform outpatient procedures that can help you rediscover your life without back and neck pain. Contact us today to learn whether you are a candidate for these procedures.