Ladies, what do I take to hospital when I have fusion surgery?

[Jan216]

Ladies I am going to have 4 level disk removal and bone fusion with the screws and rods. I will be in hospital 3 to 5 days. I would like to know what I should put in my suitcase when I go to the hospital. Thanks

[Jan216]

Hi, I had my lower back surgery Nov 29, 07, I had fusions in L-3 to S-1 with rods and screws and he cleaned out my arthritis and I am doing well now `13 days later. The first 9 days were really tough. My pain is not as bad as I thought but in both thighs,lower back I am numb but it burns so bad. And when I get cold I feel like all tha hairs there are being riped out. Has anyone else had this kind of pain and if so will it go away? My doc said it should.
I had two problems as my lips had so many blisters I could hardly move them. Better now. And I was allergic to the tape and I had blisters all over my back. We got different tape and that is better.
I have gone from 2 percoset every 4 hours to 1 every 4 hours. Not enough sometimes. I also take a15 MG Morphine pill twice a day. Thanks for listening., Janet

[Jan216]

Thanks for all your help. Guess what I had my blood work done 4 days ago and my Spine Surgeon called me and said I had a bladder infection so he gave me some Cipro to take. It is Monday so I have until Thursday AM to take my pills. He said I will be okay.
I know you can't bend or twist but can you sleep with a pillow? I have gerd and have to have a pillow or I will throw up in my sleep. I have my bed raised at the top 6 inches.
How many times did you get out of bed and walk or sit? Does it hurt to get in and out of bed?
I am sorry for all the questions. I have 2 more days before my surgery.
I hope your both feeling better and good luck to you both.
Jan

[options2341]

I had a laminectomy and fusion L3-4-5 Oct 30, 2007.  sandim was right about the things you will need in the hospital.  and no I didn't feel like using makeup.  I had a hard time convincing my self that I realy wanted to brush my teeth while I was in the hospital.  I am also 67 and had some trouble at first but now I am much stronger.  This past week I graduated from a walker to a cane.  good luck on your surgery

[sandim]

Hi Jan,
I had a PLIF/TLIF fusion and it was quite painful. I was able to log roll to get into and out of bed, but it was pretty difficult at first. I also had a walker to use for walking around.
I hope that you have someone who is going to be at home with you for at least a few weeks once you return home?
Getting around is hard at first, but it does ease up somewhat over the first few weeks. Usually, you are told, no bending, lifting or twisting for some time, so please follow your surgeon's directions .
Best of luck to you,
Sandi M

[Jan216]

Thanks for your advice you two sent me. I did think of a few items you mention. I have most all you told me about,
I am having posterior lumbar surgery. I am having a Laminectomy. He is also trying to straighten my
scoliosis. I have a colasped spine and a pinch nerve that goes down my left leg and left foot. I have every treatment know to man and nothing helps. I have had this problem since 1992 with quit a bit of relief for 1 1/2 years after my first bout of epidurals. I am a 67 year old  mom of 5 and grandma of 5 and 3 great grandkids.
Did you take make up or will I feel like using it.LOL
Did you have trouble getting up out of bed? I can not imagine it if I can not bend, twist or raise my arms. I guess if other can I can too.I ma a pretty strong 67 year old.

[Lefty2005]

Hi, you didn't say if it was cervical or lumbar. For cervical I advise bringing a bottle of Cloraseptic to numb your throat for post op. It will be very sore and your voice may be hoarse. It was a God send for me.

[sandim]

Bring sweat pants, preferably a size larger than you normally wear, tshirts to go under your brace if you will have one, low sneakers , socks, undergarments, and sports type bras are far more comfortable than regular ones, slippers, pj's ( preferably pant style), a bath robe and of course a shirt to go home in.....
A 4 level fusion is quite extensive and rare. Best wishes to you.
Sandi M