Spine · Lumbar fusion

Lumbar instrumented fusion

Lumbar instrumented fusion addresses spinal instability, deformity, and advanced degenerative conditions through pedicle screw and rod fixation using Stryker spine instrumentation. Consultations with our fellowship-trained neurosurgeon in 1–3 days, with surgery typically 2–4 weeks later. Most patients begin walking on day one; return to desk work is typically 4–6 weeks, with full fusion and return to higher-impact activity over 3–6 months.

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Most patients walking on day one
Stryker spine instrumentation
Surgery in 2–4 weeks
No referral required

Physiotherapist guiding an older patient through rehabilitation exercises

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Screw & rod stabilization

The procedure

What is lumbar instrumented fusion?

An instrumented spinal fusion is performed to stabilize the spine and relieve pain caused by instability, deformity, or degenerative conditions. The goal is to join two or more vertebrae together, eliminating motion at the painful segment.

Spinal instrumentation — screws and rods — is used to hold the vertebrae in proper alignment while the bone heals and fuses over time. These implants provide immediate stability and help maintain correct positioning during the fusion process.

Common indications

Degenerative disc disease
Spondylolisthesis
Spinal instability
Spinal deformity

Surgical technology

Stryker spinal instrumentation.

Advanced fixation technology designed for long-term spinal stability.

Our neurosurgeon uses Stryker spinal instrumentation — advanced fixation technology designed for long-term spinal stability.

Pedicle screw systems — secure fixation to the vertebral body
Titanium rods — connect screws to maintain alignment during healing
Long-term support — designed to remain in the body to support the fused segment

Surgical technique

The procedure, step by step.

1

Surgical access

The surgeon accesses the affected area through an open or minimally invasive approach
2

Disc treatment

The damaged disc or painful motion segment is addressed
3

Bone graft placement

Bone graft material is placed between the vertebrae to promote fusion
4

Instrumentation

Screws and rods are placed to hold the vertebrae in proper alignment
5

Confirmation & closure

The surgeon confirms proper alignment and stability before completing the surgery

Your surgeon

Our spine specialist.

Fellowship-trained neurosurgeon with expertise in spinal fusion surgery.

Dr. Eric Massicotte, MD, FRCSC

Minimally invasive spine neurosurgery · UofT Associate Professor

Dr. Massicotte practises minimally invasive spine neurosurgery with over 20 years of experience in complex spine surgery, and serves as Official Surgeon of the Toronto Argonauts.

Fellowship-trained spine neurosurgeon
Associate Professor, University of Toronto
20+ years of experience in complex spine surgery
Official Surgeon of the Toronto Argonauts

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FAQ

Frequently asked questions.

Lumbar instrumented fusion is used to treat degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis (vertebra slippage), spinal instability, spinal deformity, and recurrent disc herniation. It may also be recommended after other decompression procedures when additional stability is needed.

Initial bone healing typically occurs over 3-6 months, though the fusion continues to mature for up to a year. During this time, the instrumentation (screws and rods) provides stability while the bone graft incorporates and the vertebrae fuse together.

A single-level fusion typically results in minimal loss of overall spine mobility—often unnoticeable in daily activities. Most patients find that pain relief allows them to be significantly more active than before surgery. Multi-level fusions may have a more noticeable impact on range of motion.

Most patients stay 1-3 nights in hospital. You'll be up and walking within 24 hours. Light activities can typically resume after 4-6 weeks. You should avoid heavy lifting, bending, and twisting during the initial healing phase. Physical therapy may be recommended to strengthen the core and improve posture.

No referral is required. You can book a consultation directly with our spine specialist to discuss your condition and determine if spinal fusion is appropriate. Having recent imaging (MRI, CT, or X-rays) is helpful but not mandatory.