[Spinal Fusion / Lumbar] MAST TLIF Surgery done today

[cloner]

Well, today was the big day, had the surgery done this morning. I have had this injury since 2003, I can honestly state that this has been the longest day of that time frame with regards to the injury. Due to the level of pain medication that I was on prior to the surgery, getting my pain under control has been difficult at best. The PCA pump is nice, but only get that every six minutes. Then I pass out for a bit and wake up in crazy pain. The doctor tells me that day two and day three are going to be the worst for pain, then it should start to get better.
I have to clarify though, the pain I am having is from the surgical pain. So after the the completeion of day one, I have no regrets and would have done it again.
I will try to post every day while in the hospital as kind of a blog thing to keep all updated on the progress, especially for those who are considering having the surgery. Everyone take care, the pca pump is kicking in so its time to nap!

[Keano16]

And you already write on forums??? Thats great

good luck in your recovery

[KBear]

And you already write on forums??? Thats great

good luck in your recovery

I second that. I wasn't even remotely in a position to post for the first 2 days after surgery. Hoping they get your pain under control and for a speedy recovery.

[Carmen]

You are doing great posting already. I did not post myself until I was 8 weeks post op. My computer did not work in the hospital since I was on floor 2. I used the hospital's computer for awhile until that went out and then I left. I am home now and so glad to be. Take it slow.. Carmen

[Justin]

Posting does a body / recovery great! Thanks for keeping us posted. Cloner, what level was your procedure? (I can't remember...)

If you have time, check this link out Spine History -- How to Update / Create a Personal Signature

[cloner]

I have finally made it home from the hospital, I am glad to be here, yet my pain is still not under control. Of course the reason it is not under control is that the hospital discharged me on a saturday with a bunch of prescriptions that comp decided that they needed prior autorization to fill. of of the scripts was to control the leg pain that I am having in my left leg. I really wish there was a better system for this kind of stuff so that when a doctor determins you need a medication to the healing process the sarn pharmacy just fills it with no questions asked.

I circumvented the process of comp with the prescription sfor the past 7 years by running my scripts through my normal insurance and just paying the copays. while not the copays are expensive so I have to use the com insurance. So I know I sound like I am whining, but last night was a rough sleep night with my legs the way they werer and tonight is not going to be much better. hopefully everything will straighten itself up out on monday. Either way there has to be a better system.

[trkdoc714]

Frank,

Have you tried asking the hospital to provide a temporary script to get you relief until tomorrow?

I had a similar experience with my son's script when he had the flu last year. The pharmacy wouldn't fill it until they heard back from the insurance company. I made them fill it and I paid for it in cash.

It makes you wonder how insurance companies acquired so much power over our healthcare.

I hope your day gets better and you get a call soon to pick up your meds.

Heal well,

Bob

[Carmen]

Doesn't it make you wonder what the hospital does with the pills they have left over for you? I know you don't need to hear this but my hospital gave me all the left over pills. They gave them to me when I left rehab. But I think the hospital gave the pills to them. They also called the doctor and she had to go over there to bring in the scripts. (narcs) She also came to see me. I am still using some of them. I would have a hard time getting more since I am not able to drive yet. At the end of this week I should be able to again. My pharmacy does not deliver. Are you getting rehab at home? One day you will look back and say I am so glad to have had it done. At least you are using your computer to post to all of us. Even if my computer did work at the hospital or the rehab, I would not have been able to do it. You are doing great. Best wishes for a fast recovery. Carmen

[KBear]

Sorry Frank, insurance companies really get under my skin. I can no longer get antidepressants as my insurance has decided they don't pay for them in Texas. I got on one that comes in a generic, so it's only $30 something a month, versus $200 for the one I was on- which was also being used for pain control. I even had my doctor fill out the request saying it was being written off label and haven't heard a thing back from them. No one should have to deal with that, especially when you are sick/ in pain and NEED your medication, hence why your dr. prescribed it.

[Cindylou]

Oh, I couldn't agree more with Kathy. And to think you just had surgery Frank and are having to wait to get pain medication approved from insurance. It just makes my blood boil!! The insurance companies have a ridiculous amount of power! It should be against the law. Grrrrrrrrrrrrr.