Spinal fusion is an innovative but complex procedure that addresses spinal weakness, compression, and instability caused by a variety of conditions. These include slipped discs, fractures, degenerative disc disease, osteoarthritis, scoliosis, and spinal stenosis (a narrowed spinal canal that compresses nerves). If a tumor or infection has compromised your spine, spinal fusion may also be necessary.
Dr. Benjamin Cohen is an expert at performing spinal fusion procedures, which involve connecting two or more adjoining vertebrae permanently. When conducting any type of spinal surgery, Dr. Cohen believes in partnering with you to ensure the outcome is as successful as possible.
He achieves this through his talent and experience as a surgeon and by analyzing your medical history, imaging, and other information carefully to create a treatment plan that best serves your unique needs.
To connect the vertebrae, Dr. Cohen must first apply a bone graft to your treatment area. He uses a variety of metal hardware components — screws, rods, and plates — to keep the bones stationary and positioned properly while the bones grow together, but this requires time, typically 6-12 months.
The bone graft material helps the bones fuse together. Because living cells are essential for bone growth, Dr. Cohen either harvests bone from your hip or obtains a graft from a bone bank.
Another possibility is choosing to use a fusion cage made of biocompatible material that doesn’t cause any adverse reactions like inflammation. The cage contains agents that promote bone growth.
As we noted, this surgery is multifaceted and delicate, so it’s always a good idea to gather information about what the best treatment is for you and details about spinal fusion from multiple sources before making your final decision.
Whether you seek a second opinion from Dr. Cohen or you seek one out after he recommends spinal fusion for you, the more information, the better. Every patient, condition, and surgical procedure is different.
Dr. Cohen understands that each patient needs to find peace and confidence in their chosen treatment for spinal instability. He encourages you to explore your options, ask questions, and discuss your concerns with him so that he can address your fears.
Spinal fusion is a game-changer for 1.6 million annually. Much of the procedure’s success and popularity is due to its minimally invasive approach — meaning that Dr. Cohen only needs to make small incisions when he performs your fusion.
These types of procedures are less traumatic to the body and are associated with faster, less painful recovery, less bleeding and scarring, and reduced chances of post-surgical infection.
Don’t delay seeking treatment for a painful and limiting spinal condition that stems from instability. Call our Garden City office at 516-246-5008 or contact Dr. Cohen through the office website.
