In Reply to: lower back fusion needed posted by judy on December 19, 2000 at 11:57:05:
Hi Judy - I am about 2-1/2 months post-op from having fusion at L4-5 and L5-S1, done anteriorally, with BAK cages. This is a pretty painful surgery, but liveable. I was in hospital for 4 days. When I came home, I had lots of help - hubby took a week of vacation, people brought meals, etc. so it went pretty well, but if I wouldn't have had help, it would have been almost impossible. I also froze several meals ahead of time so I wouldn't have to do much cooking. The first couple weeks are pretty rough - painwise. After that it starts getting better VERY SLOWLY. You'll also probably have to wear a hard brace for at least 3 months - I still have to wear mine - hopefully at my appt. next week the doc will say I can quit. I am still taking pain meds daily, although I has hoping to not need to at this point. The recovery can vary quite a bit from one person to the next.
I would suggest using a neurosurgeon for any procedure involving the spine - too many delicate nerves around there to risk it with anyone else. Also, do make sure you are doing this as a LAST resort, as it is a MAJOR surgery, painful, and definitely not a quick fix. There are no guarantees that it will help either - I've read info. that puts the success rate (success meaning ANY reduction in pain - not eliminating pain) anywhere from 50 to 70 percent.
This board will be closing down shortly, but if you have any other questions/concerns, you can e-mail me at jilldobis@netzero.net I'd be happy to answer any that I can. Best wishes and
God bless your day!
Jill