CLINICAL ARTICLE

 

Lumbar fusion - indications and surgical options

 

 

RN Dunn

MBChB(UCT), MMed(UCT)Orth, FCS(SA)Orth. Head of Spinal Services, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Cape Town

Correspondence

 

 

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ABSTRACT

The sacrifice of motion to achieve spinal stability and pain relief has been practised since the early 20^th century by means of iatrogenically induced ankylosis or fusion. Initially this was practised in the management of Pott's disease and indications have been expanded over the years to include trauma, deformity and degenerative conditions. In the last few decades there has been a proliferation of options as regards surgical technique and instrumentation. This often overwhelms the surgeon where more is perceived to be better, yet there is limited evidence that this is in fact so.

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Correspondence:
Dr RN Dunn
Head of Spinal Services, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery. University of Cape Town
PO Box 30086, Tokai, 7966
Tel: (021) 404-5108; Fax: 086 671 5294
Email: robdunn@mweb.co.za