Can I have a CT scan after spinal fusion surgery?
CT scans are normally obtained 3, 6, 12, and 24 months after a fusion procedure or until solid arthrodesis has been obtained. These scans may be obtained without plain radiographs.
Can you have an MRI after cervical fusion?
It is possible that metal implanted during surgery could move if the surgery was just completed. It may be best to wait at least a few days after surgery before having an MRI scan. But if the surgery was a while ago, metal that is set in place is unlikely to move or cause trouble during an MRI.
Can you see a spinal fusion on an xray?
Although open surgical exploration remains the standard of care for determination of fusion, it is impractical in most clinical situations. Static radiographs have long been used as a practical method of fusion assessment, but they tend to significantly overestimate the presence of a solid fusion.
What material is used for cervical fusion?
Most plates are made from metal (mainly titanium); some are made from plastics. Certain newer plates are made from composite materials that dissolve after fusion occurs. Some plate designs are self-compressing to help promote spinal fusion.
Which is better MRI or CT scan for spine?
A CT scan is better than an MRI for imaging calcified tissues, like bones. CT scans produce excellent detail used to diagnose osteoarthritis and fractures. Joseph Spine is an advanced center for spine, scoliosis and minimally invasive surgery. Founded by Dr.
What metal is used in spinal fusion?
In an instrumented spinal fusion, instruments–rods, plates, screws, cages, and/or hooks–hold the bones in place while they fuse. The instruments are generally made of titanium, stainless steel, or cobalt chrome. Screws or hooks are inserted into the weakened vertebrae, as well as into adjacent healthy vertebrae.
Can you have a CT scan if you have metal in your body?
CT scans are safe for patients with metal implants. While it’s good to know the differences between the two types of scans, your physician will know which option is best for you.
How long does it take for bones to fuse after spinal fusion?
While it typically takes 3 to 6 months for adjacent vertebrae to fuse into one solid bone after surgery, the healing and fusion process may take longer in some patients due to: Smoking or other nicotine products (which contain toxins that hamper bone growth)
How long does it take for bones to fuse after neck surgery?
After surgery the body begins its natural healing process and new bone is formed. After 3 to 6 months, the bone graft should join the vertebrae above and below to form one solid piece of bone (Fig.
What is a 2 level cervical fusion?
The procedure involves removing the offending disc and placing an artificial disc device in its place. In a 2-level cervical artificial disc replacement, not one but 2 adjacent problematic discs are removed and replaced with two artificial disc devices.
Why would a doctor order a CT scan instead of an MRI?
Doctors order CT scans more often because CT scans are less expensive than MRI but still provide quality images. CTs are relatively quiet, whereas MRIs are quite noisy. A CT scan is faster and can create generalized images of tissues, organs, and skeletal structure; MRIs take longer, but provide clearer pictures.