A combination of metal screws and rods create a solid “brace” to hold the vertebrae in place. These devices are intended to stop movement from occurring between the vertebrae and to give more stability to the fusion site. This allows the patient to be mobile much more quickly after surgery.
Special screws called “pedicle screws” are placed through the pedicle bone on the back of the spinal column. The screws are inserted through the pedicle and into the vertebral body, one on each side. The screws grab onto the bone of the vertebral body, giving them a good solid hold on the vertebra. Once the screws are placed, they are attached to metal rods that connect all the screws together. When everything is bolted together and tightened, this creates a stiff metal frame that holds the vertebrae still so that healing can occur. The bone graft is then placed around the back of the vertebrae.