Bone grafts are commonly used by orthopedic surgeons in spinal surgery to grow, fuse and support the vertebrae. The chance of you having a bone grafting are meticulously assessed and decided by your doctor. He may consider many factors before determining if you’re a candidate for bone grafting and spinal surgery. The most important factor in predicating a surgical intervention is to make sure you the right patient for the procedure. Series of imaging and laboratory tests, combined with your symptoms, will help your doctor focus on the best treatment. One consideration is whether non-surgical treatments, such as physical therapy, medications and steroid injections caused therapeutic changes in your condition.
If non-surgical methods do not help reduce or relieve pain or numbness associated with your condition, surgery may be a good option.
Generally, your doctor may decide that you are a good candidate for spinal fusion if: your pain is chronic or recurring, your back problems have not responded well to therapy and if your spine condition only affects one or two discs or vertebrae.
The Best Type of Bone Graft for You
The best bone graft material depends on your spine problem, its location, severity and other circumstances. Different surgical situations may call for different types of bone grafting and supplementary materials.
Beforehand, your surgeon will order various clinical examinations and tests to determine the necessity and type of bone graft recommended for you. These diagnostic tests will assist your surgeon to determine the precise location of damage, severity, possible treatment options and grafts. After thorough assessment of your case and exams, he will then inform and discuss with you which bone graft and operation is best suited for your case.
However, if you are doubtful of his recommendation, tell your doctor. He or she will respect your decision and suggest other options.
