Spinal fusion and male infertility

Medtronic, maker of Infuse, is being called to account for a number of infertility cases arising from its product’s use. Infuse is a genetically engineered version of a natural protein which is used to fuse vertebrae together specifically in the lower back. The product is used as an alternative to harvesting bone grafts from other areas in the body or from bone donors. There is new debate about whether Infuse can raise the infertility risk when compared with other treatment methods.

Dr. Eugene Carragee, a surgeon at the Stanford School of Medicine and independent researcher, said in The Spine Journal that among the 69 men he treated with Infuse, 7.2 percent suffered from retrograde ejaculation, compared to less than 1% of the 174 patients who used a different product. Retrograde ejaculation can lead to infertility for some men.

"In my opinion, it is important that men who are considering having children have the opportunity to weigh the risks of the various available procedures so that they can make their best-informed decision," Carragee said.
Retrograde ejaculation occurs when semen is redirected to the bladder rather than out the urethra. The bladder sphincter does not react properly. This condition can lead to permanent infertility. This kind of leakage is caused by damage to nearby nerves.

Men considering spinal fusion should consider this possible side effect of Infuse and weigh its relative importance to their life goals.

Source: Medical News Today, The Spine Journal, Fox News