“Is it worth having a spinal fusion?”

There are many spinal problems that are correctly treated by a spinal fusion. However, in my experience, fusions are too often recommended. There may be other less invasive alternatives available. Always get a second opinion before proceeding with this type of surgery.

The answer is, it depends. If you have a specific level of disease and you have tried a very long course of nonsurgical treatment that has failed, then yes, the spinal fusion would be the next step. However, if you have multiple level disease or have not tried nonsurgical treatment, then I would advise trying nonsurgical treatment before any surgery.

You should consider spinal fusion if you continue to have persistent intolerable symptoms such as pain or weakness that cannot be improved with medications, injections, bracing and physical therapy. The spinal fusion is usually recommended if the patient has severe arthritis of the spine or needs several levels of decompression which may result in instability of the spine. If you have any doubt, please ask for a second opinion from another spine surgeon.
Good Luck.

Spinal fusions are typically recommended for unstable spines (spondylolisthesis). For any patient considering a spinal fusion, it’s always recommended to get a second opinion.

If you are in pain, and the doctor tells you that you have instability between a particular set of vertebra (spine bones) and this is causing the symptoms you are having, AND these symptoms are preventing you from living the life you want to live, then yes, it's worth it. Just make sure you find a good surgeon (research).

This is a difficult question to answer it is based on many factors. The short answer is you should illuminate all possible non-surgical options prior to a spinal fusion. This would include weight loss, routine therapy and back exercises, use of anti-inflammatory medicines but avoid narcotics. I would also recommend The possibility of injections into the facet joints or epidural injections. You’re following all this your quality-of-life is poor and besides chronic back pain you’re having any type of neurologic symptoms that a spinal fusion would be indicated. My best advice if you’ve done all these other things would also to get several opinions prior to any surgery. Good luck