L4-L5-S1 fusion - Spinal Cord Disorders Message Board

cavinbryant · 10-26-2003, 07:51 AM

Is there anyone in here that has had the L4L5S1 fusion. I am scd for it on Nov. 10th and am having 2nd thoughts. I had laminectomy at age 18 (15 yrs ago)and have been having problems since Nov. of 2001.
My pain is tolerable sitting. standing creats a differant ballgame. Those that have had this surgery. Would you do it again? Was your pain intense? Was it a closed procedure?
Any help !!!

[This message has been edited by cavinbryant (edited 10-26-2003).]

bamapritchett · 10-26-2003, 01:00 PM

I had my spinal fusion surgery in late August. I had surgery due to spondylothesis Grade 2 (vertabrae had to be put back in place). My surgery went well and I am now in the recovery phase and required to wear a hard brace to keep everything in place until the graft starts to grow on my spine.

My surgery required the bone graft from my hip and some hardware to hold it all in place. Is this the type of surgery you are talking about?

cavinbryant · 10-26-2003, 06:44 PM

MY surgery will be to correct an injury to those disc's.
Both are black in the MRI and Pain is tolerable. My Surg. is Dr. Paul Tsuhaskis with Total SPine Spec. was Miller Clinic

Sprytle · 10-26-2003, 09:02 PM

Cavin -

I posted this under another thread where you posted, but remember that fusion is forever. Consider getting another opinion to make sure the fusion is needed, send your MRI films to Dr. Jho to see if his Minimally invasive procedures might help you.

And the big thing, Artifical Disc Replacement. This is getting popular as an alternative to fusion, and it can be done on 2 levels. Germany is a big place for it. I've heard good things, so at least check it out.

Sprytle

blue2000 · 10-27-2003, 06:46 AM

I had a 360 spinal fusion on April 2, 2003. L4,L5, S1 I have instrumentation. I did wear a bone stimulator for about 4 months, 4 hours a day. I am totally fused, but I was a good candidate. Healthy weight, non smoker. I waited too long for surgery due to fear, the only drawback is still numbness in my heel. No more pain though.

Good luck