Now you know what to expect after spinal fusion surgery. This stage of healing can be uncomfortable and frustrating, but it is an essential part of rebuilding your spines strength. Optimize your diet. During this time, its important to keep moving and to follow instructions from your physical therapist and your surgeon. Yes, spinal fusion can cause nerve damage. This procedure is called anterior diskectomy and fusion. I have had the hardware removed from a prior surgery during current a current surgery as long as the prior fusion has fused. A herniated disc pushes into the spinal canal. Many of You have reached out to me recently and sharing where you are in your struggles, and the darkness, and I want you to know you're not alone and I unde. Netanya, Israel 4250407, Premia Spine UK They will work closely with you to determine the best course of action to help you enjoy life the way you want to. Last medically reviewed on March 23, 2022. Its usually a safe and effective treatment for spinal compression, but you need to be in good overall health to undergo general anesthesia. endstream endobj startxref Heres a general idea of what you can expect during the classic open laminectomy: According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, you may be a candidate for surgery if you have: Doctors usually try to treat spinal compression with more conservative methods before recommending surgery. we got home, I somehow managed to walk through the front door, hobble up the stairs, and heave myself into bed, where I would stay for most of the next 10 days. Accessed Nov. 22, 2022. Spinal fusion uses techniques that mimic the bodys healing process when youve broken a bone. Assistive devices, such as a cane, can be handy. Physical therapy can teach you how to move, sit, stand and walk in a manner that keeps your spine properly aligned. However, your vertebrae will continue to heal and fuse for up to 18 months. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Spinal fusion is a surgical intervention that treats herniated discs, scoliosis, spinal stenosis, and even vertebrae fractures. For now, its recommended that you still avoid high-impact activities, such as contact sports and extreme sports. Surgeons use several different surgical techniques to perform a laminectomy. In a 2021 study, researchers found that 73% of 2,699 people who underwent lumbar decompression surgery experienced clinically significant symptom improvements within 2 years. Spinal fusion connects two or more bones in the spine to make it more stable, correct a problem or reduce pain. Not only that, but eating fiber-rich foods and drinking plenty of water can also help you avoid post-op constipation. Getting ready for the surgery might include trimming hair over the surgical site and cleaning the area with a special soap.