How long does it take to heal L5 S1 fusion?
Consider the following results: In one study 53 patients were followed for an average of 20 months after fusion surgery. In those patients with normal MRIs prior to surgery, only 50 % were improved after surgery.
How often does a low back fusion need a second surgery?
Collectively about 1 in 10 patients who have a low back fusion will need a second surgery to fix non-union or hardware failure (8). There a number of problems that arise as a direct result of lumbar fusion itself.
What does it mean to have a lumbar fusion?
Lumbar fusion means that you take a part of the spine that’s painful and bolt it together and add bone so it grows together and doesn’t move (2). Commonly hardware is added to enhance the stability while the disc spaces and other areas grow bone.
What happens when you have spinal fusion years later?
The most common thing we see in the clinic in patients who have spinal fusion complications years later is either a return of back pain or new symptoms. These both indicate possible new disease. What are some good examples?
The most common thing we see in the clinic in patients who have spinal fusion complications years later is either a return of back pain or new symptoms. These both indicate possible new disease. What are some good examples?
Consider the following results: In one study 53 patients were followed for an average of 20 months after fusion surgery. In those patients with normal MRIs prior to surgery, only 50 % were improved after surgery.
When to wear a back brace after spinal fusion?
If you have been prescribed to wear a back brace by your doctor after spinal fusion, then it is recommended that you continue with it for six weeks to three months following the spinal fusion surgery, as it will help immobilize your back.
Do you need a second opinion after lumbar fusion?
I agree that you need a second opinion and that your Doctor is not treating you the way that you should be treated by investing the cause of your weakness, however, hardware can come lose even if the best surgeon puts it in so lets be fair about that.