Spinal fusion is typically an effective treatment for fractures, deformities or instability in the spine. But study results are more mixed when the cause of the back or neck pain is unclear. In many cases, spinal fusion is no more effective than nonsurgical treatments for nonspecific back pain.

What is the success rate of spinal fusion surgery?

Depending on the condition the surgery is treating, spinal fusion has a 70 to 90% success rate.

What is the downside of spinal fusion?

Spinal Fusion Risks

There's a small risk of bleeding, infection, blood clots, or nerve damage. This is true for any surgery. Spinal fusion risks include a chance that you may feel pain at the spot where the bones are fused. And sometimes the fusion doesn't take because there's not enough bone formation.