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Spinal Fusion

A photo of Dr Colum Nolan, Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon of Oxford Spine & Neurosurgery Centre

Dr Colum Nolan
Senior Consultant Spine & Neurosurgeon
MB, BCh, BAO, LRCPSI, MRCSI, FRCSI (Neurosurgery)

A surgical approach to stabilise the spine

Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure used to stabilise one or more segments of the spine. It involves joining two or more vertebrae together so that they heal into a single, solid unit. The aim of fusion is to reduce abnormal movement, relieve pressure on nerves or the spinal cord, and improve spinal stability.

Spinal fusion may be performed as part of different spine surgeries, depending on the underlying condition and location within the spine.

When Spinal Fusion May Be Considered

Spinal fusion may be discussed when:
  • Spinal instability is contributing to pain or neurological symptoms
  • Degenerative changes affect spinal alignment or movement
  • Nerve or spinal cord compression is associated with abnormal motion
  • Spinal deformity requires correction and stabilisation
  • Previous spine surgery has resulted in instability
Fusion is not required for all spine conditions and is recommended only when clinically appropriate.

How Is Spinal Fusion Performed?

Spinal fusion is performed under general anaesthesia and may involve different surgical approaches, depending on the condition being treated.
In general:
  • The affected spinal segments are stabilised using surgical implants
  • A bone graft is placed to encourage the vertebrae to heal together
  • Fusion develops gradually over several months
Spinal fusion may be performed as part of procedures such as cervical spine surgery, lumbar surgery, or scoliosis correction</a >.

Recovery After Spinal Fusion

Recovery following spinal fusion varies depending on the location and number of levels treated.
In general:
  • Hospital stay is required for monitoring and early recovery
  • Activity is increased gradually under guidance
  • Rehabilitation may be recommended to support strength and mobility
  • Fusion takes time, and follow-up is important to monitor healing

How Spinal Fusion Fits Into Spine Care

Spinal fusion is one component of comprehensive spine care. Before surgery is considered, patients are usually assessed for non-surgical options such as physiotherapy, medication, or pain management treatments.
Surgical decisions are guided by symptom severity, imaging findings, spinal alignment, and individual needs.
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Care at Oxford Spine and Neurosurgery Centre

Spinal fusion procedures at Oxford Spine and Neurosurgery Centre are planned based on careful clinical assessment and imaging correlation. The approach and extent of fusion are individualised to each patient’s condition.

Care is led by Dr Colum Nolan, Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon with more than 20 years of clinical experience, with emphasis on patient understanding, appropriate surgical selection, and structured follow-up.

In summary

Spinal fusion is a surgical technique used to stabilise the spine and support nerve or spinal cord decompression when instability or deformity is present. It plays an important role in selected spine conditions and is considered as part of a broader, individualised treatment plan.

Medical Disclaimer
This page is intended for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Information provided is not a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Suitability for spinal fusion must be determined by a qualified medical practitioner following appropriate clinical assessment.

Our Spine & Neurosurgeon in Singapore
Dr Colum Nolan
MB, BCh, BAO, LRCPSI, MRCSI, FRCSI (Neurosurgery)

Dr Colum Nolan is a Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon with over 20 years of experience, specialising in minimally invasive spine (keyhole) surgery and other spine procedures. 

A graduate of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dr Nolan underwent neurosurgical training in Ireland and Australia, followed by a fellowship in complex spine surgery at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge, as well as rotations at the Orthopaedic Spine Unit in Norfolk and Norwich Hospital. 

Dr Colum is committed to delivering compassionate, patient-centred care, combining surgical precision with a genuine dedication to improving his patients’ quality of life.

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