Answer :
Final answer:
The spinal fusion procedure involves removing the deteriorated intervertebral disc and fusing the adjacent vertebrae to stabilize the spine and alleviate pain caused by conditions like disc herniation, as pictured in various figures describing the structure and common issues related to the spinal column.
Explanation:
The root operation performed during a spinal fusion procedure for a 57-year-old male with severe degenerative disc disease involves the removal of the damaged disc and the fusion of the adjacent vertebrae. This is done to stabilize the spine and provide pain relief. During this procedure, the affected intervertebral disc which has deteriorated, possibly leading to a herniation where the nucleus pulposus protrudes and causes nerve compression, is removed. A fusion is then performed wherein the adjacent vertebrae are joined together using bone grafts or hardware such as rods and screws.
Spinal fusion specifically addresses issues such as a herniated disc, as described in Figure 7.30, where weakening of the anulus fibrosus allows the nucleus pulposus to herniate and compress spinal nerves. The result is pain and potentially muscle weakness in regions supplied by the affected nerves. In the lumbar spine, these conditions can cause sciatica as shown in cases of herniation at common sites such as L4/L5 or L5/S1 intervertebral discs. The cervical spine, with its own potential for disc herniation at sites like C5/C6 or C6/C7, can also be the site for similar surgical interventions when presenting with corresponding symptoms.
