Fusion should only be recommended after a careful evaluation of the individual case taking into consideration all factors involved, including whether much smaller procedures may be sufficient. With Non-Traumatic Spine Surgery 90% of patients avoid unnecessary fusion.
Between 1998 and 2008 the national bill for spinal fusion increased 7.9-fold and the mean total hospital charges increased 3.3-fold. However ; 1 in 6 elderly patients underwent re-operation within 2 years and 1 in 4 patients was readmitted for a Lumbar Fusion-related complication
The number of Lumbar Fusions increased 220% since 1990. However; the overall satisfaction does not exceed 60% and 40% of patient’s condition remain the same or get even worse