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Mininally Invasive Spinal Fusion S1/L5

Posted , 4 users are following.

nik890
nik890

Hi, has anyone had this procedure and it went well?  Everyone seems to have tales of things going wrong but I dont see many that have gone well.  I have DDD and have had 3 slipped discs in the space of the past 2 years.  The surgeon has recommended the fusion as it will keep prolapsing.  My work is pressuring me to do something due to time off work, even though I have not actually had lots of time off as its a recurring condition so obviousy they want it resolved from a work point of view.  My husband thinks I should get the surgery for quality of life but on here everyone is talking of horror stories that just makes me terrified to have it done.  I honestly dont know what to do for the best.

0 likes, 8 replies

8 Replies

  • laura49003
    laura49003 nik890

    Posted

    Hi im sorry to hear youve been suffering. I had a spinal fusion on the discs you have mentioned. I had my fusion at 2 levels through the stomach they went. My spine was unstable with stabbing pains i had 2 prolapsed discs and they had disintegrated bone rubbing bone worst pain ever.i had the surgery 16weeks ago and feel so much better its taken away severe pain and im so glad i had it. 
    • nik890
      nik890 laura49003

      Posted

      Hi Laura I think I'm mainly reluctant as I'm not in constant pain. It seems to go bad once a year, maybe twice and then goes within anything between 2-8 weeks but it stopse working when I have this as I can't sit at a desk cos it squashes the nerve.... it's very annoying and work will get funny with me if I keep taking days off for a recurring problem. It's difficult to know what's best
  • DonnaL
    DonnaL nik890

    Posted

    I had a fusion of L4, 5, S1 a year ago and am so pleased with no regrets. I also had a spondylolisthesis, with back-stabbing pain and very bad radiating leg pain. No more back-stabs and no radiating pain. I waited until I was 66, and recovery was slower than if I had been younger. I wish the Drs. I saw over the many years before could have fixed it, but by waiting I got state of the art surgery. Like Laura49003, no more severe pain. That doesn't mean I don't get a tweek or twinge here and there, but I the surgeon said I just need to walk more to build strength (exercise not my strong suit!).
    • nik890
      nik890 DonnaL

      Posted

      That's great to hear donna. I've decided to take the plunge as I can only put my trust in the surgeon and be optimistic. I don't want it to continue affecting my life x
    • DonnaL
      DonnaL nik890

      Posted

      Good luck and keep us posted. Just remember to be patient, don't overdo, practice BLT - no bending, lifting, twisting - for even longer than they tell you. I was super careful after surgery and it has paid off!
    • nik890
      nik890 DonnaL

      Posted

      Thanks, I can only hope for the best now i've made the decision.  The surgeon is top of his game so if I was going to have anyone do this, I am glad its him!  Its looking like it wont be until after our honeymoon in September though
    • DonnaL
      DonnaL nik890

      Posted

      A great surgeon is the key. Sounds like yours will be like mine. Congrats on your marriage and honeymoon! Good that you will have your trip before surgery.
    • nik890
      nik890 DonnaL

      Posted

      Thank you. We got married abroad in may and all our family and friend were there so we have booked a week away for ourselves as honeymoon. Just hope the back settles a bit by then x
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