Hello Everyone (Contemplating Spinal Fusion from L1 to S1)

[johnny the k]

Hello everyone , New here, I am new to the forum, I am contemplating a recomended Spinal fusion L-1 to S1, Diagnosed with spinal stenosis and ddd. Have had 2 back surgeries in the past 2004,2007. Laminectomy l-2, l-3, l-4, hemi laminectomy l-5 with partial discectmy.. Symptoms( partial numb rt. leg,back to great toe with complete leg numbness when walking, standing on for a short time, have been ongoing and getting progressively worse, with injury made worse due to FCE test and during spine exercise class, walking around like a slinky. Wondering if anyone has had multiple level fusions and what things will be like when or if I have this done. Nice to meet everyone and thanks for listening

Johnny the K

[Justin]

Hi Johnny the k,

Welcome to the Spine Patient Society!

Sorry to hear that you are facing another spine surgery. However, your upcoming operation will hopefully help with your current pain and ultimately restore complete functionality.

An L1 to S1 fusion is a pretty extensive surgery and you will be laid up for quite a while: the fusion at each level needs to "take" and that requires following your post-op instructions from your surgeon. Also, I would inquire about a formal rehabilitation program to work on your core strength (abdomen), as you will inevitably become weak (if you aren't already) after such a big surgery. The key to your recovery will be avoiding any twisting, low-level bending (tying your shoe laces) or high impact activities as well as eating well. You only get once chance to heal and you want to give yourself the best possible chance to recovery completely (no smoking, lifting more weight than instructed, engaging in highly dangerous/risky activities too early in recovery, etc.).

When and where are you having your operation done? We have SPS Members from all over the world and many of them not only have their spine troubles in common, but also their treating surgeons are often the same.

Good luck and please keep us posted on your progress.

[ajj1001]

Welcome to the forum, sounds like you have been through loads of surgery so have a fair idea of what you will be facing. How are they going to do the fusion?

[johnny the k]

Haveing the surgery done in Duluth, mn. sounds like rods and screws, from the posterial approach, getting a second opinion as this is a workers comp injury, got everyone and their brother involved with this, My occ Health Dr. is the forever optomist as he seems to think I am fine and did not lower my restrictions to light duty until last month, after I seen the Neurosurgeon. After dealing with this for 10 months or more. Thinks his classes and FCE may not have excaberated this problem. I know differently.He seems to hear what he wants to instead of listening to me . I have had many instances of waking up in the morning with a load in my shorts, and pain and numbness in lower back. dr. does not think this is related. I do not take any pain meds as I do not like them and the way they make you feel and they do not releive the pain, only cloud the mind.

[spinches]

Hi, welcome! I don't have much to contribute in the way of advice about lumbar surgery, but would say it is good to get as many medical opinions as possible, from the most prominent surgeons you can find. The spine surgeons themselves say that if you see 5 of them you get 6 opinions. I consulted 7 surgeons about my cervical issues, and got 6 opinions. So push the workers' comp people to pay for surgical consults or paying for a consult yourself, if you can make that happen. Neurosurgical and orthopedic surgical consults cost me between $400-700 USD, with the higher fees charged by local surgeons and the lowest one by a doctor in the UK.

Sandra

[Gilbert P]

HI Johnny
I was to have a four level fusion and also my S I joint, Also a Workers Comp case, Saw many surgeons and now recovering from a two level surgery with Coflex and spacers Three weeks out.

I may end up with more surgery in the future time will tell.

Good Luck

Gil

[johnny the k]

thanks Gil, I hope you heal fast and sure.I Have to wait and see what the DR.s at the ins and the employer say.after my 2nd opinion.