Thoracic Spinal Fusion

Thoracic spinal fusion uses pedicle screws, rods, and bone graft to stabilize one or more segments of the thoracic spine. It is performed for a range of conditions including fractures, tumors, infections, and deformity — where the structural integrity of the thoracic spine has been compromised.

Thoracic fusion may be considered for unstable thoracic fractures, progressive kyphotic deformity, spinal tumors involving the thoracic region, or failed prior surgery with thoracic instability.

The thoracic spine is a different biomechanical environment than the cervical or lumbar spine. The rib cage provides natural stability, which affects both the indications for surgery and the approach. Thoracic fusion is usually reserved for situations where structural instability or progressive deformity poses a real risk — not for degenerative pain alone.

• Spinal cord injury
• Infection
• Hardware failure
• Pneumothorax (if anterior approach used)
• Blood loss
• Nonunion

Hospital stay varies from two to five days depending on the extent of surgery. Bracing may be used. Recovery is gradual, with return to full activity typically over three to six months.