Procedures · Category
Spinal Fusion
Procedures that stabilize a painful, unstable or slipping segment of the spine so it heals into one solid piece.
Overview
About spinal fusion
Spinal fusion joins two or more vertebrae using spacers, bone graft and implants. It is used to treat instability, spondylolisthesis, degenerative disc disease and some cases of scoliosis — and to stabilize the spine after a decompression when needed.
Dr. Record performs fusions in the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine, from the front, side or back, and uses minimally invasive techniques whenever clinically appropriate.
Conditions it may treat
Medicare, PPO, private insurance, workers’ comp & cash accepted →
Procedures
Fusion procedures
Dr. Record performs
Neck
Anterior Cervical Discectomy & Fusion (ACDF)
A common and well-established neck surgery that removes a damaged disc from the front of the neck and stabilizes the level to relieve arm and neck symptoms.
Neck
Posterior Cervical Fusion
Surgery from the back of the neck that stabilizes the cervical spine, often combined with decompression for multi-level problems.
Mid-back
Thoracic Fusion
Surgery that stabilizes the mid-back when instability, deformity or a decompression requires added support.
Lower back
Lumbar Fusion
Surgery that stabilizes a painful or slipping segment of the lower spine so it heals into one solid piece.
Lower back
Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF)
A lumbar fusion performed from the front of the body, reaching the disc without cutting through the muscles of the back.
Lower back
Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion (LLIF)
A minimally invasive lumbar fusion performed from the side of the body, avoiding the back muscles and the abdomen.
Lower back
Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF)
A lumbar fusion performed from the back that decompresses nerves and stabilizes the spine in a single approach.
Conservative first
A Conservative Approach to Spine Care
Dr. Record believes that surgery is not necessarily the first step for every patient. Whenever appropriate, she works with patients to explore non-operative and conservative treatment options first.
When conservative treatment does not provide sufficient relief — or when a patient would like to understand whether surgery may be appropriate — Dr. Record provides a comprehensive discussion of available surgical options.
Her goal is to identify the treatment approach that can help alleviate pain, restore function, and help patients return to the activities that matter to them.
FAQ
Questions about spinal fusion
Don’t see your question? Call (213) 876-8670.
How do you choose the type of fusion?
Dr. Record considers the level involved, your anatomy, bone quality and condition, then explains why she recommends a particular approach.
How long does a fusion take to heal?
Bone fusion continues to strengthen for months after surgery. Dr. Record will guide your activity as it heals.
Will my insurance cover this procedure?
Dr. Record accepts Medicare, workers’ compensation, PPO plans and a variety of private insurance plans, plus cash payments. Many procedures need pre-authorization — our team will help check your coverage before surgery.
Get stable, lasting relief
Learn whether spinal fusion is the right option for your condition.