Awake Spinal Fusion Surgery in Edison, NJ

Dr. Alok Sharan is one of the few spine surgeons in the United States who performs awake spinal fusion surgery — a groundbreaking technique where patients remain conscious under local anesthesia, eliminating the risks of general anesthesia and dramatically reducing recovery time.

What Is Awake Spinal Fusion?

Awake spinal fusion is a minimally invasive surgical approach in which the patient is kept awake and comfortable using local anesthesia and light sedation — instead of being placed under general anesthesia. This allows Dr. Sharan to communicate with the patient during surgery and confirm nerve function is preserved in real time.

Benefits of Awake Spinal Fusion

• No general anesthesia — eliminates risks of intubation, respiratory complications, and anesthesia side effects
• Safer for high-risk patients — ideal for patients with heart disease, obesity, diabetes, or respiratory conditions
• Faster recovery — most patients walk the same day and return home within 24 hours
• Reduced blood loss — minimally invasive technique means less trauma to surrounding tissue
• Lower complication rates — significantly fewer post-operative complications vs. traditional open fusion
• Real-time neurological monitoring — patient feedback during surgery adds a safety layer no monitor can replicate

Who Is a Candidate?

Awake spinal fusion may be appropriate for patients with lumbar spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, degenerative disc disease, recurrent disc herniation, or comorbidities that make general anesthesia high-risk (obesity, sleep apnea, cardiac conditions).

Why Choose Dr. Alok Sharan?

Dr. Alok Sharan, MD, MHCDS is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic spine surgeon with over 20 years of experience. He is recognized as a pioneer of awake spinal fusion in the United States and has been named a Castle Connolly Top Doctor and Power Player in Spine Surgery. Dr. Sharan has performed hundreds of awake spinal fusion procedures with exceptional outcomes. His patients come from across New Jersey including Edison, Woodbridge, Piscataway, Newark, Elizabeth, and New Brunswick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is awake spinal fusion painful?

No. You will receive local anesthesia to numb the surgical area completely. Most patients report feeling pressure but no pain during the procedure. Mild sedation keeps you relaxed throughout.

How long is recovery?

Recovery is significantly faster than traditional open fusion. Most patients walk the same day, return home within 24 hours, and resume light activities within 2-4 weeks. Full recovery typically takes 3-6 months as the fusion solidifies.

Does insurance cover awake spinal fusion?

Many insurance plans cover awake spinal fusion when medically necessary. Our team will verify your coverage before surgery and assist with pre-authorization. Contact us at (732) 898-3950.

What is the success rate?

Clinical studies show fusion rates of 95% or higher for single-level procedures. Dr. Sharan patients consistently report significant relief from leg pain, back pain, and nerve symptoms following surgery.

Schedule a Consultation

If you have been told you need spinal fusion, ask about the awake approach. Call (732) 898-3950 or request an appointment online. The Spine and Performance Institute is located at 35-37 Progress St, Suite B5, Edison, NJ 08820.