Is spinal fusion done with bone graft substitute?

A bone graft substitute is a material placed where the surgeon wants a bridge of bone to develop. In spinal fusion, it may fill a prepared space or sit within a cage near the vertebrae. Its role is to provide a scaffold or other support for healing; it is not the same as replacing the spine with artificial bone.

The choice depends on the spinal level, surgical approach, bone quality, medical history, and whether the operation is a first procedure or a revision. Screws, rods, a cage, or the patient's own bone may also be part of the plan.

Ask which graft material is planned, where it will be placed, and whether it will be combined with your own bone. Share nicotine use, diabetes, medicines, allergies, and previous operations because these can affect surgical planning and healing.

After surgery, follow restrictions on bending, lifting, and driving. Keep walking and exercises within the programme provided by your spine team, and attend follow-up visits so healing and symptoms can be assessed.

Contact your team for fever, wound drainage, worsening back pain, or new weakness or numbness. Seek urgent help for loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the saddle area, severe leg weakness, chest pain, or breathing difficulty.

Why is a graft substitute suitable for my fusion? Where will it be placed, and what other graft or fixation will be used? Which symptoms should improve first, and what restrictions apply while the fusion develops?