Can an xray show bone fusion?
X-rays and CTs are the most useful imaging tests to check on how your bones are healing and fusing. They show the bones the best. In those x-rays and / or CT scans, your surgeon is looking for evidence of either a successful or failed fusion.
How do you assess cervical fusion?
The most common fusion criteria, bridging trabecular bone between the endplates and absence of a radiolucent gap between the graft and endplate, are subjective. We recommend using <1 mm of motion between spinous processes on extension and flexion to confirm fusion.
Can you have an MRI with a neck fusion?
It is possible that metal implanted during surgery could move if the surgery was just completed. It may be best to wait at least a few days after surgery before having an MRI scan. But if the surgery was a while ago, metal that is set in place is unlikely to move or cause trouble during an MRI.
Does a neck fusion qualify for disability?
If you have suffered from a spinal disorder that has resulted in you undergoing spinal fusion, but you are still unable to work, you may be eligible to qualify for Social Security disability benefits.
Can I have an MRI with a titanium plate in my neck?
Titanium is the most common metal used for dental implants, and it is completely non-reactive to magnetism. Because it is not magnetic, it will not interfere with an MRI. This means that your dental implant will not interfere with your scan, or cause any negative effects if you have an MRI.
What are the side effects of cervical fusion surgery?
Possible complications as a result of cervical spine surgery include, but are not limited to, bone graft site pain, injury to your nerves, esophagus, spinal cord, vocal cords and carotid artery, also infection and non-healing of the bony fusion. There is also the rare instance of instrumentation failure or breakage.
What is a cervical fusion used to treat?
Cervical Fusion Neck Surgery for Treating Pain Cervical Fusion Surgery or Arthrodesis. Cervical fusion, also called an arthrodesis, permanently links together two (or more) adjacent vertebrae. Recovery. Recovery from cervical fusion depends on a number of factors. Complications. Alternatives to Cervical Fusion.
What is involved in a cervical fusion surgery?
A fusion surgery is done at the same time as the discectomy operation in order to stabilize the cervical segment. A fusion involves placing bone graft and/or implants where the disc originally was in order to provide stability and strength to the area.
What is anterior approach in cervical fusion?
An anterior cervical discectomy and fusion is an anterior approach to removing a cervical herniated disc in order to relieve spinal cord or root pressure and alleviate corresponding pain, weakness, and numbness.