Laminectomy on dec 29th

[OzzieandHarriett]

Thanks Natalie,
I am having a 4 level decompression also. You put my mind at ease. I am glad that you are doing so well. I guess i will go to therapy afterward also. I have to go for my family doctor for pre op today. We were burried in 2 feet of snow over the weekend. The cardiologist gave me clearance on Friday. Have a great Christmas. Mary Anne

[roomba]

Hi Mary Anne,

I hope you are home and doing well (or as well as can be expected). I didn't realize you were having 4 levels done - that's more complicated than a 1 or 2 level laminectomy. In retrospect, I should have let myself recover a bit longer.....don't make that mistake!

I am at almost 3 months and now nearly back to better than new! Am exercising and in PT which is really helping a lot. The medication for my "other" issues has kicked in and I am able to finally sleep this week for the first time in almost 2 months.

I get some hip pain and lower back soreness, but overall I am really happy I had this surgery. I hope your experience is positive too.

Wishing you a healthier 2010!

[OzzieandHarriett]

Hi Everyone,
I wound up having a little more done. The doctor did the laminectomy on all the levels. He also did a discectomy on L4-5, and a bilateral foraminectomy (I am not sure what levels he did this on). I got out of the hospital fast because the beds were horrible and I was put on fall precautions and could only go from bed to commode. I am home and doing well. I have home care - a nurse, physical therapist came already. I am also going to have an occupational therapist. I have a large incision and a lot of bruising. Guess you all did. I go back to neurosurgeon on Thursday to get the staples removed. All and all, I think I am doing well. I have been walking around the house and setting my oven times (am up to 7 minutes but really could do more). I am still using my cane, but PT wants me to use a walker if I go out. Hope everyone has a very Happy New Year. Take care, Mary Anne