Spinal
Fusion .
Spinal fusion permanently joins two or more vertebrae to stabilize the spine. It is commonly used to treat conditions such as instability, degenerative disc disease, or spinal deformity. Dr. Yasmeh recommends fusion only when motion-preserving alternatives are not appropriate.
Motion-preserving when possible.
Dr. Yasmeh selects the least-invasive option that addresses your specific anatomy and goals.
- What it is: Spinal fusion permanently joins two or more vertebrae to stabilize the spine. It is commonly used to treat conditions such as instability, degenerative disc disease, or spinal deformity. Dr. Yasmeh recommends fusion only when motion-preserving alternatives are not appropriate.
- Key benefits: Stabilizes unstable spinal segments; Definitive treatment for spondylolisthesis with instability; Corrects deformity in selected scoliosis cases.
- Typical candidates: Spondylolisthesis with instability; Selected scoliosis and deformity cases.
- Recovery: Hospital stay is typically 1–3 nights depending on the levels fused. Patients walk the day of surgery, use a brace if recommended, and follow a graduated rehab program. Bony healing of the fusion takes 6–12 months; clinical recovery is usually meaningful within 2–3 months.
Benefits of spinal fusion
- Stabilizes unstable spinal segments
- Definitive treatment for spondylolisthesis with instability
- Corrects deformity in selected scoliosis cases
- Effective for many revision spine surgeries
- Predictable long-term durability
Typical candidates
Dr. Yasmeh considers spinal fusion for patients with:
- Spondylolisthesis with instability
- Selected scoliosis and deformity cases
- Recurrent disc herniation at the same level
- Some cases of failed back surgery syndrome
- Trauma with mechanical instability
Every surgical decision starts with imaging review, a careful physical exam, and a candid conversation about goals — surgical and non-surgical options are always discussed together.
What recovery looks like
Hospital stay is typically 1–3 nights depending on the levels fused. Patients walk the day of surgery, use a brace if recommended, and follow a graduated rehab program. Bony healing of the fusion takes 6–12 months; clinical recovery is usually meaningful within 2–3 months.
About spinal fusion.
- Candidacy depends on your specific diagnosis, imaging, prior treatments, overall health, and goals. Dr. Yasmeh evaluates each patient individually and only recommends a procedure when it's a clear fit.
- Hospital stay is typically 1–3 nights depending on the levels fused. Patients walk the day of surgery, use a brace if recommended, and follow a graduated rehab program. Bony healing of the fusion takes 6–12 months; clinical recovery is usually meaningful within 2–3 months. Dr. Yasmeh and his team coordinate your post-operative therapy, follow-up imaging, and return-to-activity plan.
- Dr. Yasmeh consults at all four offices (East LA, Glendale, Santa Fe Springs, Tarzana) and performs surgery at affiliated hospitals and surgery centers. The surgical location is chosen based on procedure, your insurance, and convenience.
- Absolutely. Dr. Yasmeh welcomes second opinions and routinely reviews outside imaging and records before any surgical decision.
When Dr. Yasmeh recommends this procedure
Lumbar Stenosis
Read about this condition and when this procedure is the right answer.
Read moreScoliosis Spinal Deformity
Read about this condition and when this procedure is the right answer.
Read moreSpinal Trauma
Read about this condition and when this procedure is the right answer.
Read moreFailed Back Surgery Syndrome
Read about this condition and when this procedure is the right answer.
Read moreFind out if spinal fusion is right for you.
Same-week consultations. Four Greater LA offices. Most insurance accepted.