Spinal discs can fuse as a natural reaction to degeneration and instability.
Spinal Disc Fusion Explained
Spinal disc fusion, whether it happens naturally (auto-fusion) or surgically, occurs when the intervertebral disc space collapses and the adjacent vertebrae eventually grow together. This process can lead to the elimination of motion at that segment.
Auto-Fusion as a Response to Degenerative Disc Disease
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Degenerative Disc Disease: The primary cause of auto-fusion is degenerative disc disease. As discs degenerate, they lose height and stability.
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Calcification and Bone Growth: According to research, a natural reaction to degenerative disc disease involves the edges of the vertebrae developing growths due to the calcification of ligaments.
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Bridging Vertebrae: Over time, these growths gradually extend towards each other.
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Eventual Fusion: In rare cases, this process culminates in the fusion of the two adjacent vertebrae. This natural fusion attempts to stabilize the spine.
Summary of Auto-Fusion
| Process | Description |
|---|---|
| Degenerative Disc Disease | Discs lose height and stability. |
| Calcification | Ligaments around the vertebrae calcify, leading to bone growth. |
| Vertebral Growth | The edges of adjacent vertebrae grow towards each other. |
| Fusion | Eventually, the vertebrae fuse together, limiting motion at that segment, to restabilize or auto-fuse. |
