Spinal fusion surgery

brieze

brieze

Maulds' Angel
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Somewhat Known 10 Year Club
The Doctor said I have to get one. So, I'm calling and setting it up tomorrow. I won't lie, I'm pretty scared and unsure of this whole deal. I've never had any kind of surgery and have no clue what to expect, except pain. Does anyone have any surgery stories full of tips for me? How about if anyone knows someone who has had a spinal fusion?
 
I've had a few... to many... and could answer a bunch of your questions but I won't because everyone is unique. One standard piece of advice if I can be so bold is to say " listen to and do exactly what your doctors tell you to do and never be afraid to ask them a question. Remember... they are there for you. "
 
I've known people who've had spinal fusion. I agree with Guy, if u have questions or you're uncomfortable in any way before the surgery, let the staff know as they are there for you. Don't be afraid to ask no matter how ridiculous you think the question is :p

As with pain, they will surely prescribe you pain killers. Immediately after surgery tho', you won't feel the pain due to the after effects of anesthesia ;)

I am pretty sure there would be some form of an education the hospital staff will provide for you a few days before surgery. Make sure you have a list of your questions so you wont forget to ask.

Whatever level will be operated on, they might use some bone graft. Make sure to ask them what the plan is re: this. Sources of bone grafts can be from your own bone , synthetic or from donor bones. Ask the surgeon what the advantages/disadvantages are per each of the graft types applicable for your case. It might be too that they might not need it ;)

Good luck :)
 
This surgery was a big talking point in pro wrestling for quite some time recently.

(Yes, I'm one of THOSE people that watch "that fake crap". I prefer my violence scripted- sue me.)

In those cases, it was always a "Well, nothing else worked" kind of deal. I don't know your personal medical history, but I can tell you it is a big deal. So let me restate what all my compatriots have- listen and ask. Don't take shortcuts with your recovery. Take it slow.

As somebody who has had a chronically bad back, I can tell you that it's the sort of thing that you can feel great but if you push it too fast the TINIEST thing can put you right back to square one. I once missed a week of work from twisting in my seat to grab a binder.
 
Thanks for the info everyone =] I seriously appreciate it.

I asked about the plan already. They's not grafting, they're using cadaver bones. My grandma has a history of not tolerating anastethsia well, and since I inherited some of her other allergies they're going to use something different. Surgery is 5ish hours and I get an epidural after.

*sigh* time to call.
 
brieze said:
Thanks for the info everyone =] I seriously appreciate it.

I asked about the plan already. They's not grafting, they're using cadaver bones. My grandma has a history of not tolerating anastethsia well, and since I inherited some of her other allergies they're going to use something different. Surgery is 5ish hours and I get an epidural after.

*sigh* time to call.
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Good luck. :) Everything will work out alright.
 
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