[Spinal Fusion / Lumbar] Xlif l4-l5

[irishnut]

Hello all,

In 96 I was involved in a MVA and was ejected 35ft, where I suffered C1-C2 and L3,4,5 fractures at age 17. Dotors decided not to do surgery and let all the fractures heal themselves.

Growing up I had some pain slight pain in the lower back but never really bothered me. I followed my childhood dream and am in Law Enforcement. Two years into it I started having severe pain in my lower back. Started seeing a doctor and was advised that I would mostlikely need surgery. So after Epidural Steroid & Facet Injections, Radiofrequency Ablations (RFA), and Discography, oh and seven doctors I am set for XLIF on May 3rd.

I have not been able to find to many people that have had this procedure that did not have some form of a major disorder of the spine. The ones I did fine are did not sound to good. I did find a doctor, who I was told by one of my other doctors is a Godfather in the southeast for the XLIF. Anyone have any experience with this procedure? How long were you out of work? My dotor said I would be back at work full duty in 4-8 weeks. God I hope so!!!

[Gilbert P]

Irishnut

to the family, There are people here who have fusions and they should chim in soon to answer some of your questions.
How many levels are you fusing? Did you consider all the options like ADR for motion preservation they heal quicker?
Who is your surgeon and where are you getting it done?

All the best
Gil

[irishnut]

My last two doctor informed me the I was not a candidate for ADR. I am only having a level one. They were looking at a level two but they believe my L5 is fine but it is taking the stress of L4. My doctor told me i pretty much dont have a L4 disc anymore. Im in so much pain right now I think they are right.

My doctor is James Malcom. I will be having surgery at Kennestone Hospital. I dont take pain medication. That is only because I have an extremely high tolerance to medication. I could take three or four Oxycontins or Morphine and I still suffer. Plus this is not what I want to have to do to get relief by tripling my dosage. Im still working and that takes my mind off of the pain as long as I stay busy.

[Gilbert P]

Hi Irishnut

I am sorry you are dealing with so much pain Are your other levels in great condition ? If not a fusion may put additional stress on them and could damage the disc.
Are your facet joints in good condition?
Please do your research

All The Best

Gil

[Gilbert P]

HI Irishnut

I noticed your surgery is next week, and your mind is made up to go for it

Keep us posted as for we are here to help

Here is to good health

Gil

[irishnut]

The facets are just fine. The bone scan showednthat all the fractures were structurely fine. The only one was L4-L5 disc. My Dr said he felt fine with just doing the one level. When I broke L4 I was told it blew apart, which I lost an inch in height.

Just wish it was easier deciding what procedure to do. I hear Xlif was the shortest heal time. Scared with the Alif since there is a chance of not being able to have children.

I know it was short notice here but was hoping to hear some other experience with the Xlif. Not sure if it is so new.

[Cindylou]

Irishnut, I think "Katie" had an XLIF, in addition to her other things done, just about 5 weeks ago. Try sending her a PM. Welcome, and good luck with your upcoming surgery. We are here for you when you land on the other side, to help you normalize your experience.

Best,

Cindylou

[Carmen]

The facets are just fine. The bone scan showednthat all the fractures were structurely fine. The only one was L4-L5 disc. My Dr said he felt fine with just doing the one level. When I broke L4 I was told it blew apart, which I lost an inch in height.

Just wish it was easier deciding what procedure to do. I hear Xlif was the shortest heal time. Scared with the Alif since there is a chance of not being able to have children.

I know it was short notice here but was hoping to hear some other experience with the Xlif. Not sure if it is so new.

Hi Irishnut,
I am also suppose to have an XLIF. I would not have a ALIF. You may need more time than you think. A few men on the forum have had this procedure. I am suppose to have many more levels than you. i am actually having two operations at one time. The other will be posterior. Where is your hospital located? I have heard from many doctors and they all said they were the"father" of the XLIF, one being from Chicago. I don't think it is new either. I wish I had more information for you. I will send you something that someone sent me. i will send it through your email. Carmen from Chicago :thumpup:

[irishnut]

Thank you Gil!
Hello Cindylou and Carmen!

Carmen,

I had my preop on Wed. We decided I would be doing the Xlif and the Posterior fusion as well. The doctor said I would return to light duty in approx 5 weeks, and then return to full duty around 4 months. I can live with that. Well, I guess I really dont have a choice huh? Doc said he wanted to add the Post for extra support.

Now I guess I need to figure one thing. How in the world does one get use to not working for five weeks?????

[Carmen]

Irishnut, I think "Katie" had an XLIF, in addition to her other things done, just about 5 weeks ago. Try sending her a PM. Welcome, and good luck with your upcoming surgery. We are here for you when you land on the other side, to help you normalize your experience.

Best,

Cindylou

Hi Cindylou,
Do you remember who was the member that went to Brazil? I don't want to sent a question to the wrong person. Also I just came back from one of the doctor's I am thinking of using. I am having the same surgery as the new member, Irishnut I will also write to her. Thanks, Carmen