It’s an intimidating process to consider any type of back surgery. At The Pain Center, we want to eliminate that fear and replace it with hope for a pain-free future. In this blog, we’ll look at lumbar fusion and the common myths and misconceptions surrounding this minimally invasive surgery.
In this blog on the common myths and misconceptions of lumbar fusion, we’ll look at the following:
- What is lumbar fusion?
- Myth 1: Lumbar fusion is a last resort surgery
- Myth 2: Lumbar fusion means the end of spinal flexibility
- Myth 3: Recovery from lumbar fusion is extremely lengthy
- Myth 4: Lumbar fusion is only for elderly patients
- The real benefits of lumbar fusion
- Preparing for lumbar fusion surgery
- Life after lumbar fusion: What to expect
What is Lumbar Fusion?
Lumbar fusion is a minimally invasive procedure that involves fusing two or more lumbar vertebrae together to reinforce stability and mobility in the spine.
Explaining the Surgical Procedure
This approach uses small incisions and a short process (around 3 hours) to remove any pain-related issues, such as herniation or bulging discs, and fuse the vertebrae through bone grafting. Your surgeon will supply you with anesthesia so that the whole procedure is quick and painless. Once the complications are removed from the target area, and the fusion is complete, your surgeon will stitch up the area and move you into the next step: recovery.
Myth 1: Lumbar Fusion is a Last Resort Surgery
People may hold off on a surgery like lumbar fusion until they feel it’s absolutely necessary. Waiting until your chronic pain is unbearable can only make the procedure more complex and decrease its success rate. In reality, this surgery is designed for anyone who is experiencing pain or numbness due to a spinal condition. Early intervention is key.
Myth 2: Lumbar Fusion Means the End of Spinal Flexibility
When a lumbar fusion is done correctly, you should only expect a slight decrease in the flexibility of your spine. This occurs because of the fusion, gripping together the unstable vertebrae. As a result, you’re provided more stability and a reduction in pain. Longer, more major surgery is mainly associated with reduced flexibility, but TPC’s lumbar fusion takes a minimally invasive approach with smaller incisions that significantly reduce the time of the procedure.
Myth 3: Recovery from Lumbar Fusion is Extremely Lengthy
Nope! TPC’s minimally invasive lumbar fusion has the majority of patients out of the hospital on the same day of surgery. Of course, you’ll need to rest and take part in the proper recovery steps as your body heals, but our procedure is designed to promote quicker healing and shorter recovery times so you can get back to living life.
Myth 4: Lumbar Fusion is Only for Elderly Patients
Lumbar fusion is targeted at patients with degenerative disc disease, which typically begins by the age of 35. Around 30% of people experience some degree of disc degeneration by this age, and most people do after 40.
Lumbar fusion is for all ages of adults whose quality of life is hindered by chronic pain and symptoms from spinal disc degeneration. Rather than age, your doctor will look at other factors for eligibility, such as existing medical conditions, lifestyle, and past treatment attempts.
The Real Benefits of Lumbar Fusion
Lumbar fusion can give you the physical and mental confidence to live as you want, with greater spine stability and eliminating symptoms like weakness, pain, and numbness. The benefits outweigh the risks for the vast majority of patients who are experiencing chronic back problems.
Risks Associated with Lumbar Fusion
No matter the type, every procedure has risks. Some uncommon but possible risks of lumbar fusion surgery include,
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Bleeding
Your doctor will have an in-depth conversation with you before planning spine surgery to ensure your medical history and lifestyle make you a low risk for encountering any of these issues.
Preparing for Lumbar Fusion Surgery
It’s crucial to adhere to the following steps alongside any other preparations your doctor requests.
Eliminate Smoking and Tobacco Products
Smoking cigarettes or tobacco products can stunt bone growth and decrease the success rate of lumbar fusion surgery. Your bones must have the nutrients and strength to heal once the fusion is in place.
Tell Your Doctor About Your Current Medications
Make sure your doctor knows all medications you currently take, both prescription and store-bought. Likewise, your doctor will look at your medical history to review past medications or medical conditions you’ve had. Certain medicines can interact with anesthesia and other parts of the surgical process, affecting success and safety.
Discuss Your Lifestyle With Your Doctor
Some patients won’t be eligible for lumbar fusion due to lifestyle factors that raise complications or decrease the likelihood of success. For example, if you’re a longtime cigarette user or have diabetes or a serious heart condition, these can significantly reduce how effective the procedure will be and can make it more risky for you.
Take Blood Tests To Determine Overall Health
Before your procedure, undergoing blood tests can assess your overall health and surgical tolerance. This allows your doctor to determine your eligibility for spinal surgery and gauge the potential success of your specific situation.
Life After Lumbar Fusion: What to Expect
The main change after your surgery is maintenance. It’s essential to be diligent about scheduling and going to checkups so your doctor can assess your progress and determine if any complications have arisen.
Likewise, you must take the necessary steps in recovery, including waiting to do certain activities like lifting heavy items, bending, and returning to work. You’ll also need to take part in physical therapy and other recovery techniques to ensure you get the most out of your procedure. Your doctor will provide all the information you need for a successful recovery.
