I'm back with another pain question about "Fusion Surgert"

[Ozworks]

Hi Everyone,

Well my continued back pain seems to go on forever.

I just had a Discogram done on my lower three disc's and I am waiting for the results, but I already know that 2 of my disc's are bad, I screamed like you know what! The third disc was fine, no pain.

So based off of the results, I expect they will recommend that I have "Fusion" done on my lower two disc's.

I will first visit with the surgeon before I move forward, but I thought I would ask from some of you who either know about this or have had this surgery!

What really happens during and after the surgery? And what can I expect for a recovery time?

Also, will there be side affects because of the surgery?

Thanks for any and all feedback.

Dave...

[Ozworks]

Hi, Thanks for the responses, I will take your advice and make sure I understand all aspects of the surgery, before and after.

I hope to hear from someone who has had the surgery on the lower back.

I think that would help.

Once I get the results, I will post them here.

Thanks much.

Dave...

[Jaybay]

My sister had 4 cervical discs fused and plated a couple months ago. She is doing GREAT!  The usual post-op restrictions apply - no lifting more than 5 pounds for 3 months and that sort of thing.  The surgeon had her slowly turn her head a few times a day almost as soon as she woke up.  So far she says she hasn't noticed any lack of range of motion.

I'm fused and plated at 3 levels myself, and only notice a fraction of difference in range of motion on the left side.  It's been so many years now that I don't even notice it, and I have no residual pain at all.  

So much of the outcome depends on the patient.  If your doctor recommends rehab after surgery, DO IT!  It's going to hurt and our normal reaction to pain is to stop doing whatever makes us hurt.  The mindset has to be completely opposite where rehab is concerned and it's not easy.

Just make sure you talk about post-op issues with your doctor BEFORE surgery.  Ask about his plans for pain management and rehab and anything else that crosses your mind.  Keep a written list at hand and scrawl down questions as they crop up.  Then you have them all handy for when you talk to your doctor.  Think positive thoughts!  :-)

[Tuckamore]

Hi Dave,

Welcome back to the forum. You've been missed. I am very sorry to hear that your back pain is continuing. Unfortunately that's the nature of chronic pain.

If you are looking for detailed medical information on the actual surgery it's best to goggle the procedure. Often you can even find related videos that are very descriptive.  

I have not have a fusion. What I understand is the area that is fused will no longer have motion. This fact will place greater pressure on the disc above and below the fusion and often those discs become effected.

Recovery can be a  longer than a less complicated laminectomy. It differs based on the procedure and person but usually the hospital sat is 2-5 days. Following your physicians order will be very important. How well you do this my determine the success of the surgery. Your activity will probably be very limited in the initial 30-60, even 90 days. No lifting, limited bending and reaching and driving along with other limitations will be required. Even as you begin to feel better you must stay within these restrictions. That can be difficult for those of us that have been in pain for so long and are suddenly feeling better.

Again that area will be fused and have no motion. It's my understanding that you will be able to notice that lack of motion. Others will have first hand information for you. I don't.
I know that we have to have procedures that we are not always comfortable with. Your surgeon will have lots of good information for you. Make sure he is very experienced and skilled. That can reduce complications and ensure a better out come.

Please let us know how you are doing. We'll look forward to hearing from you and your updates. I wish you the very best.

Take Care,
~Tuck