Hi all,

This will probably be my last post before surgery monday the 13th. I'm first on the schedule at 7am with an approx hospital stay of 5-7 days. They're not going to let me go home until I can walk..(how far?..) Thanks for the responses to my first post some days ago & I will try my best to keep you informed of my progress.. (good or not so good)

To the one who posted the post op surgery tips; I forgot to copy your user name when I copied the list.. Thank you! Thank You! & Thank You. Half of those things I had never thought of. To any that have scheduled procedures while I'm away, my prayers of good success are with you.

Scribe

Diagnosis: L5 Gr2 spondylitic spondylolisthesis with L5 disc protrusion, posterior annular tear, sciatica & Rt. lower extremity radiculopathy.

Proposed procedure: L5 Gill-type laminectomy , radical L5 discoidectomy, posterior lumbar interbody fusion at L5, interanl fixation at L5 with titanium fusion cages lateral intertransverse fusion from L5 to sacrum, internal bone stimulator & posterior seg. spinal instrumentation.

Best wishes for a successful operation and a quick recovery. Post again and tell us how well things went!

Hi Scribe, http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/wave.gif

I just wanted to pop in and tell you that you will be in my thoughts and prayers http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/angel.gif

Please get some rest tonight http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/tired.gif

You will be just fine, the pain meds will make the first few days alot easier than you think.

The walking was not even a problem for me.
All I had to do was walk in the hallways, and pass the simple stairs test.
It was a little wooden set of about 5 steps, it was a breeze.

I was stronger in the hospital, than when I got home.

I know you will be fine, you have such a positive attitude, and that really is a big part of the surgery recovery. http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif

I wish you well, and will be looking forward to your return. http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/bouncing.gif

Be Well,
Baxter http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/love2.gif



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Two level laminectomy fusion L5-S1 & L2-3 done on 12/6/02.
Fifteen inch scar from the very top of butt crack (sorry), to the bra line.
BAK cages, rods & screws.(Titanium)
My pelvic bone was used for grafting.
Praying that the other two discs in between, won't have to be fused later, as I was told it was a possibility, due to the other two discs in between, not being in that great of shape.
Doc didn't want to fuse four levels, unless it is really necessary.
I would hate to repeat the surgery, as the recovery period, is so very painful.
I also have a free fragment in my T11-12 area, that I'm still refusing surgery for, at this point in time.
That surgery is way too dangerous for me to consider, until if affects my being able to walk.

Best of luck on your surgery tomorrow. I too have problems similar to yours and I am very interested in your recovery.

I just know everything will turn out good. Keep that positive attitude.

Will keep an eye out for your next post in a week or so. (Or whenever you feel up to it)

GOOD LUCK!!!
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