Posterior spinal fusion approaches the spine through an incision in the back. The affected disk space is removed from the spine and replaced with a bone graft. The goal of the procedure is to stimulate the vertebrae bones to fuse into one solid bone. Fusion creates a rigid, immovable column of bone in the problem section of the spine. Titanium screws and rods are inserted into the side of the spine to add stability.

 

Posterior spinal fusion is similar to the anterior lumbar interbody fusion except that with posterior spinal fusion, the disk space is fused by approaching the spine through the back instead of through the abdomen.

 

Posterior spinal fusion is recommended for patients whom anterior lumbar interbody fusion is difficult to do because of large stomach areas or calcified blood vessels.