need lumbar fusion

[littlejoey]

im nervous about havein my surguory for lumbar fusion, L-2 thru S-1. ive had 2 previous lumbar surgeories for herniated discs, central spinal stenoses, spurs, and arthritis. didnt bother me before. the decressed movement is part of the worry. can anyone shed a light on the issue so i'm not so nervous.

[TJ3126]

Hi Joey,

Pls not to worry. Finally, I decided to go for surgery after 2 years of pain enduring and i never regretted my decision. B4 my surgery, my walk is getting shorter and shorter as i had to find a place to sit to relieve the pain in my lower buttock right down to both leg. I went for physio therapy, spent so much money and also go for traditional malay and chinese massage but the problem still exist.
Now, i am back to normal and start running and gym training. I recommended the operation to my colleaques who have this same fear as you and now he is a happy man as me. I did the surgery at SGH.

Rgds,

T.J.

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

Yes, fusion if the lumbar spine would lead to decreased movement around the region such as during bending etc. However this would not cause a major morbidity or highly affect you day to day life. The choice of a surgery is based on the benefits of symptomatic improvement exceeding the risk factors and the complications.
Hope this is helpful.

Take care!