Pseudarthrosis is a non-union of two bones. In essence, it is a fracture that does not unite with nearby bone. During spinal surgery using fusion, the purpose of the tools and instruments used (such as screws, rods, etc.) is to help fuse and unite the vertebrae so that it forms into one solid column. Patients with pseudarthrosis of the spine often exhibit abnormal movement at the site resulting in the union to fail. Often there are other factors that lead to the non-union such as metabolic factors, choice of instrumentation, surgical technique, etc.
About the Author: Donald Corenman, MD, DC
Donald Corenman, MD, DC is a highly-regarded spine surgeon, considered an expert in the area of neck and back pain. Trained as both a Medical Doctor and Doctor of Chiropractic, Dr. Corenman earned academic appointments as Clinical Assistant Professor and Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, and his research on spine surgery and rehabilitation has resulted in the publication of multiple peer-reviewed articles and two books.