Pedal edema post BAK L5-S1 fusion

  I noticed last night that I had a trace of pedal and ankle edema in my right leg. This is the same leg that I had radiculopathy in prior to my surgery. I am 9 weeks post-op. This is a first time occurrence. Any clue as to why this would happen?  I am presently taking Calan 180 SR for MVP, Entex LA, Lortab 5, Beconase, Flexeril, Zoloft, and Ambien.
  Thank you.
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Dear Betsy,
Lower extremity edema may be due to many causes and not necessarily from the spinal fusion you had.  It may be due to cardiac problems, poor venous drainage (stasis) and finally blood clots in the veins.  The first two causes noted would cause bilateral leg swelling while blood clots typically are unilateral.  The BAK fusion in itself should not cause edema of the legs.  
The swelling you describe is mild and may be simply due to keeping the one leg in a position dependent on gravity.  However, it is certainly conceivable that you have any of the other problems listed above.  One should be particularly wary of blood clots with swelling in just one leg. This can potentially be dangerous if they break loose and travel to the lung.  Deep vein thromboses are common in the postoperative setting with inactivity and can be seen in the general population in patients who are inactive for long periods of time (long flights, bus rides, etc).
Try elevating your leg and see if the swelling doesn't improve.  If it does not improve or worsens, notify your physician for an evaluation.  It would be better to be on the safe side and get it checked out if there is a question.
Good luck.