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POSTERIOR FUSION

POSTERIOR FUSION

Posterior fusion surgical procedure requires a posterior incision in your back, over the lumbar spine. Depending on how many spinal levels are diseased, the surgical technique may be performed using a smaller incision or longer incision.

The incision is carried into the bony structures of the spine to expose spinous processes, lamina, facet joints, and transverse processes. Soft tissues and cartilage are removed in the area where the bony fusion is desired.

Depending on the disease of a patient, decompression and freeing up the nerve roots, and/or a discectomy are fundamental to relieve pain and increase function that is caused by compression of the nerves.

For stabilization pedicle screws (metal) and rods are placed to optimize lordosis and hold the spine in place. The bony surfaces are roughened and prepared prior to bone graft placement. Bone graft is then laid over the bony surfaces. Various types of bone graft may be utilized. Recently, ‘local bone’ autograft from the dissection will be placed, along with products of Bone Morphogenic Protein (rhBMP-2/ACS, Infuse), Demineralized Bone matrix (DBMs), and or synthetic graft extenders.

This type of fusion surgery requires healing and consolidation of the bone graft materials with the native bone. The bone graft heals to a solid mass of bone (much like a fracture heals). Once healed, the solid bony mass provides mechanical stability.

Patient Testimonials

"I had a Cervical Spine Surgery February 2017 and Lumbar Spine Surgery November 2017. Both Surgeries were a Success. I feel so much better....No More Pain! Thank You, Dr. Kropf... You're the BEST!"

-Martha B

"First off, I believe Dr. Kropf helped save my life! It's been 6 months since I had my surgery and my spine has fused successfully! Dr. Kropf and his amazing staff treated me like a human being instead of just a patient! The support and encouragement they gave me throughout the few years I have been going is incomparable! Thank you to all those who helped me during my recovery, especially Sakura, and Trisha! You are all Angels on Earth! God Bless you!"

-Stefifi A

“Dr. Kropf is a very knowledgeable and experienced surgeon. He is just as straight forward and honest as I remember him from 19 years ago. He did an amazing job with my back then, that I flew across the country to discuss the second surgery with him!”
"This man gave me my life back! I wouldn't be working today with him as a spine nurse ! I had a cervical fusion & artificial disc replacement for my lower back ! He's caring & compassionate & so is his staff ! He saved my husbands life also by ordering the right tests & got him to another specialist , I feel so blessed to have him! "

-Anastacia H

"Dr. Kropf is literally a miracle worker. I have suffered with horrible pain for years from herniation at L4/5 & L5/S1. Had a prior micro-surgery from another surgeon which did not work. Dr. Kropf performed a double fusion through the stomach and back. Had my 7 month follow up yesterday and got a clean bill of health. Honestly, after about 5 months I was totally pain free. He completely nailed it!!! I also just referred one of my good friends who also feel in love with Dr.Kropf. I had interviewed 7 surgeons with my wife and we both agreed that there was no one better to do my surgery. This was not a fun thing to go through, but so worth it. Katie, Sakura, and Trisha also were awesome to deal with and super responsive."

-Lee E