A review of spinal fusion for degenerative disc disease: need for alternative treatment approach of disc arthroplasty?

This article reviews the history of spinal fusion. The most common indication for fusion may be painful disc degeneration although the exact determination of this condition remains controversial. In the analysis of surgical fusion techniques, literature review has documented a higher rate of success in attaining successful fusion than in obtaining excellent clinical outcomes. Significant morbidity can be seen in the performance of spinal fusion. A limited number of patients presently undergoing spinal fusion will be candidates for disc arthroplasty, though indications for spinal arthroplasty are still evolving.