360-Spinal Fusion in Plano, TX

360-degree fusion procedures are very common surgical techniques that are used to fuse vertebrae in the spine. During these procedures, board-certified spine surgeon Dr. Kendall Carll creates incisions in the necessary portions of the spine to reduce abnormal motion in the regions that are producing pain. Also known as an anterior/posterior lumbar fusion, this procedure requires incisions to the low back region as well as the abdomen (anterior and posterior) to complete the fusion. Dr. Carll and the entire team at Spine Care of North Texas are committed to helping patients regain their quality of life and mobility by diagnosing and treating the underlying cause of chronic back pain. Using 360-spinal fusion, Dr. Carll can provide long-term results in a minimally invasive a manner as possible.

Pain management and physical therapy can often help when you’re living with chronic lower back pain, but when these more conservative approaches fail to provide relief, surgery may be your best option. Compared to traditional spinal surgeries, 360-degree fusion at Spine Care of North Texas offers a variety of benefits, including:

• Provides a less invasive alternative with fewer risks of complications
• Offers a faster recovery time
• Has a high rate of success
• Relieves chronic lower back pain caused by degenerative disc disease and other conditions
• Improves the spine's stability
• Can reduce reliance on painkillers for daily comfort
• Can enhance your overall quality of life by allowing you to take part in your favorite activities

Patients suffering from low back pain and nerve pain in the buttocks or thighs could be candidates for spinal fusion surgery. More conservative treatment methods may be attempted before surgery is recommended. To find out if you are a candidate for 360-spinal fusion surgery, contact Dr. Carll’s office today. The following are back conditions may require a 360-spinal fusion:

• Post-discectomy syndrome
• Degenerative disc disease
• Fractures of the lumbar spine
• Tumors or infections of the cervical or lumbar spine
• Significant instability or spondylolisthesis in the cervical or lumbar spine

The 360-spinal fusion procedure is considered somewhat safe as surgeons typically use minimally invasive techniques to complete it. At times, two surgeons will complete the surgery together — one working from the posterior side and one from the anterior side. In slender patients, the spine may be easier to access through the abdomen versus the back due to muscle thickness. During the procedure, Dr. Carll will insert an interbody cage between your vertebra and fill the empty space with synthetic bone graft material. From the posterior side, your vertebra will be fused together with screws. This technique yields the highest success rate of all spinal fusion procedures. When the surgery is complete, you will be sutured closed and closely monitored until you wake up.

You can expect to remain in the hospital for up to three days following your surgery. Most patients are fitted for a brace or corset immediately after the procedure, which will restrict movement as well as promote healing of the fused vertebrae. Dr. Carll typically has patients begin physical therapy within a week of their first post-surgery follow up to encourage healing. Each person’s recovery will be entirely unique following spinal fusion surgery. Recovery times may be lengthened or shortened according to the extent of the surgery, the underlying cause of the condition, and the patient’s age and overall health.

How do I prepare for the procedure?
Preparation typically involves a series of diagnostic tests like MRI or x-rays, and a thorough medical review. Patients are advised to stop smoking, manage other health conditions like diabetes, and may need to cease certain medications before the surgery.

Will I still be able to move normally?
After a 360-spinal fusion, you can expect some limitations in spinal flexibility. While the procedure aims to stabilize your spine and alleviate pain, it does so by fusing vertebrae, which inherently reduces movement in that specific area. However, most patients find that the benefits — like significant pain relief and improved stability — outweigh the drawbacks of slightly restricted range of motion.

Will I need physical therapy after the procedure?
Yes, physical therapy is often a vital component of the recovery process after a 360-degree spinal fusion. A personalized therapy plan aims to improve your strength and mobility, helping you return to your daily activities more smoothly.

Dr. Kendall Carll is an extremely skilled and experienced spine surgeon who has changed countless lives by relieving back pain. When conservative methods are not enough to address back conditions, it may be time to consider surgery. 360-spinal fusion is a highly effective and minimally invasive treatment for conditions that cause chronic back pain. If you are ready to take control of your life and reduce your back pain, contact Spine Care of North Texas right away. We offer four North Texas locations to help make your treatments more convenient.