Spinal Fusion Surgery in Dallas, TX
A surgical procedure that permanently connects two or more vertebrae to eliminate painful motion and restore stability to the spine, utilizing advanced minimally invasive techniques.
What is a Lumbar Interbody Fusion?
Lumbar interbody fusions involve removing a large part of the intervertebral disk and then placing a "cage" filled with bone or bone substitute between the two vertebral bodies.
The cage fulfills two crucial purposes:
- It serves as a spacer that keeps the vertebral bodies from collapsing upon each other after the intervertebral disk is removed.
- It encourages the growth of bone between the vertebral bodies above and below it, eventually resulting in a solid fusion.
Studies show that patients undergoing interbody fusions along with posterolateral lumbar fusions fuse at higher rates than those undergoing posterolateral fusions alone, which is why an interbody fusion is recommended whenever possible.
Dr. Bidiwala specializes in Minimally Invasive Spinal Fusion (MIS Fusion), using smaller incisions and specialized retractors to access the spine, significantly reducing muscle damage, blood loss, and recovery time while achieving the same structural stability.
Benefits of Spinal Fusion Surgery in Dallas, TX
Advanced techniques designed to optimize your recovery and outcomes.
Eliminates Painful Motion
Restores Spinal Stability
Corrects Spinal Deformities
Minimally Invasive Options
Less Blood Loss & Muscle Damage
Long-Term Pain Relief
Types of Lumbar Interbody Fusion Procedures
Who is a Candidate?
Spinal fusion is considered when conservative treatments fail to relieve back or neck pain caused by abnormal motion or instability between vertebrae. This is common in conditions like spondylolisthesis (where one vertebra slips over another) or severe degenerative disc disease.
It is also often performed in conjunction with a laminectomy if the decompression procedure requires removing enough bone that the spine would become unstable.
During your consultation, Dr. Bidiwala will review your X-rays and MRI to determine the best approach (ALIF, PLIF, TLIF, or XLIF) tailored to your specific anatomy and condition.
Recovery & Results
Recovery from a spinal fusion takes longer than a decompression surgery because it takes time for the bones to fuse solidly. Depending on the approach (ALIF, PLIF, TLIF, or XLIF), you may spend 1 to 4 days in the hospital, though some minimally invasive fusions can be done with shorter stays.
You will strictly avoid bending, lifting, and twisting for several weeks (typically 8 weeks). X-rays will be taken periodically to monitor the bone growth. Full fusion can take 6 to 12 months, but you can typically return to most normal activities much sooner once cleared by Dr. Bidiwala.
Procedure Overview
Preparation
Performed under general anesthesia with precise intraoperative imaging and nerve monitoring.
Surgical Access
Using minimally invasive techniques, small incisions are made to access the unstable segment of the spine from the front, side, or back.
Graft Placement
The damaged disc is removed, and a spacer (cage) filled with bone graft material is inserted between the vertebrae.
Instrumentation
Screws and rods are often placed to hold the vertebrae perfectly still while the bone graft heals and fuses.
Fusion Process
Over the next several months, your body grows new bone across the graft, permanently joining the vertebrae.
Why Dallas Patients Choose Dr. Shaad Bidiwala?
As a board-certified, fellowship-trained neurosurgeon with over 20 years of experience, Dr. Bidiwala specializes in complex and minimally invasive spine procedures. He has been voted by his peers as best doctor in D Magazine over 15 times, reflecting his commitment to exceptional patient outcomes and personalized care.
- Board-Certified Neurosurgeon
- Minimally Invasive Specialist
- Thousands of Successful Procedures
- Patient-First Philosophy
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Conditions
Conditions This Treats
Back Pain
From a dull, constant ache to sudden, sharp pain that limits movement, back pain is one of the most common reasons patients seek care. We diagnose the root cause to provide targeted, effective treatment.
Learn MoreDegenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative disc disease is the age-related wear of spinal discs that can cause painful flare-ups. While a natural part of aging, targeted treatment reduces discomfort and preserves spinal function.
Learn MoreSpondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis occurs when one lower vertebra slips forward onto the bone beneath it, causing lower back pain and muscle tightness. Treatment ranges from conservative care to minimally invasive fusion.
Learn MoreLumbar Spine Conditions
The lumbar spine (lower back) carries most of the body's weight and is highly susceptible to injury and wear. We offer advanced treatment for herniated discs, stenosis, spondylolisthesis, and other lumbar conditions.
Learn MoreSpinal Fusion Near Preston Hollow and Highland Park
Dr. Bidiwala sees fusion patients at his office at Mockingbird Station, 6080 N Central Expy, Suite 150, minutes from Preston Hollow and Highland Park. Consumer group MPIRICA listed him as the only surgeon in Dallas with 'Excellent' outcomes for both cervical and non-cervical spinal fusion.
Ready to Find Relief?
Take the first step toward a pain-free life. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Bidiwala to discuss your treatment options.