Ouch! But on the other side. (L4-L5 Fusion)

**Graysonlaw** · 10-15-2009, 10:08 PM

Okay, well I've survived so far! Gill procedure went well and all grafting was my bone removed. Surgeon said it was much worse than expected - said there was lots of spineous growth and fibrous tissue. That told him that this had been going on for a long time.

Post-op day one has been up and down. The pump pain medicine did almost nothing, so we moved to a couple types of Oxy-something and muscle relaxer. Much better - except when the nurse is late for the next dose!

Moving at all has been a big challenge. I did walk to a chair and sit for a couple of hours. It was quitr painful, but felt good to move my position after laying still for such a long time. Tomorrow is more walking and some stairs. If all goes well, I could be home tomorrow evening.

Catheter has not been a problem at all. Much better than trying to move in order to urinate. Wound drain not a problem either.

My only problems (so far) have been a bit of a fever and occasional low blood oxygen. Yeah!!!

Pete

**Katie** · 10-15-2009, 11:38 PM

Pete, I'm so glad that you've posted your progress

What is the story behind the fever? Do you have other signs of an infection? They can sneak up on you quickly...speaking from experience here

Keep in touch and good luck with keeping that nurse in line

**daveinaustin** · 10-16-2009, 04:30 AM

Glad to hear you're on the other side! The first two days, then the first weeks will be the roughest, but will start improving through time. We're here to help you all the way!

BTW, they are probably giving you both oxycontin as a long-term opiate and oxycodone for the short-term. Depending upon your situation, you probably won't be on the oxycontin longer than a couple of days.

Note: once you're home, they might give you a prescription for oxycodone 10/325 for every 4-6 hours for 30 days.

If you are having too much pain near the end of the 4-6 hours, let me know. I found a good trick to keep a more consistent dosage; however, it will definitely require the dry-board!

-Dave

**Graysonlaw** · 10-16-2009, 08:38 AM

Originally Posted by Katie

Pete, I'm so glad that you've posted your progress

What is the story behind the fever? Do you have other signs of an infection? They can sneak up on you quickly...speaking from experience here

Keep in touch and good luck with keeping that nurse in line

They have really said very little about the fever, but that Tylenol will bring it down. I don't know os any other infection signs.

**roomba** · 10-16-2009, 09:05 AM

Hi Pete,

Glad to see you made it to the other side - and posting already! I'm impressed as I couldn't turn the computer on for almost a week.

I hope your recovery continues to go well.

Natalie

**Dave** · 10-16-2009, 11:09 AM

Pete,

Good to hear from you so soon. Sounds like things went well with the surgery and I'm sure you will do great with recovery. Go slow, take it easy and heal well.

to the "OTHER" side.

**Cindylou** · 10-16-2009, 11:23 AM

Hey Pete, welcome to the other side.

As I think Dave said, the first couple of days, especially, the pain can just be quite rough. Hang in there. It will slowly begin to turn a corner. Listen to your body and we are here for you with any questions during your recovery process.

**scduggan** · 10-16-2009, 01:20 PM

Congratulations on making it through. I can not say welcome to the other side, but I do have some advice. A very good friend of mine had PLIF surgery last February. She had the worst time with the whole bathroom thing (if you catch my drift). I can only speak from watching her and visiting her each day. That said, you need to be on a Major Fiber Quest.

Get a grip on this right from the start. (Don't you just love people giving advice when they have not been in your shoes!!!!) I will have artificial disc surgery soon and I plan on being a complete rabbit!
You are in my thoughts! Best Wishes!
CD