scared of bone graft - Spinal Cord Disorders Message Board

chitowngl · 12-15-2004, 02:26 PM

Hi all. I am having cervical fusion surgery in early January and my ortho will be using a bone graft from my hip (I am a smoker). I have heard that this will be more painful than the actual fusion surgery. Is this true? How will my mobility be compromised? Will I be on strong pain meds? As you can see, I have a lot of questions and am wondering if anyone can share their stories? Thanks in advance!
Carrie

Ramsfan · 12-15-2004, 07:22 PM

Hi Carrie,

I've had 3 neck surgeries in 10 years and have had bone grafts from my hip all 3 times. The 1st time was a little painful but the other 2 were not bad at all. I didn't even need pain meds after my last surgery. It will be 1 year Sunday. The surgeon actually used crushed coral to fill in the area on my hip the last time.
A word of caution though. Don't make any sudden movements like twisting or bending real fast for a few weeks or you will probably feel pain. If I had to do it again I would choose bone graft again.

Good Luck,
Frank

chitowngl · 12-16-2004, 07:19 AM

Frank---
Thanks for the info--hopefully my results will be as good as yours.
Carrie

Brenygirl · 12-16-2004, 09:14 AM

My husband had the bone graft from his hip for his lumbar surgery. He said it didnt hurt anymore than the surgery itself. The first surgery he had they used cadaver bone & that did not work, so the 2nd surgery they used the graft.

Breny

chitowngl · 12-16-2004, 12:34 PM

thanks brenygirl--my ortho's nurse actually had the same surgery and she said it was very painful for her for about a week-she had trouble sitting and walking so spent a lot of time in bed--i am hoping this will not happen to me!