Surgery for progressive scoliosis and severe spinal stenosis recovery?

Posted by clairemcl @clairemcl, Apr 10 11:42am

I am expecting to have spinal surgery for progressive scoliosis and severe stenosis at L3-L4 where the curve is sharpest. I am not questioning the decision to have surgery. I am 67, female, and short with normal weight. If you have had something similar, how were your outcome from surgery and/or and recovery? I am hoping to be able to walk more easily, with or without a cane. Five or so years ago I took my last hike and I have difficulty accepting the decrease in mobility at this age.

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gently | @gently | Apr 11 2:34am

clairmcl, best wishes for your surgery. The success rate for adults is very high, the 1 ti 2%. I'm excited for you.

clairemcl | @clairemcl | Apr 11 8:19am

In reply to @gently "clairmcl, best wishes for your surgery. The success rate for adults is very high, the 1..." + (show)

Thanks.

gently | @gently | Apr 11 9:47am

clairemcl,
I have scoliosis, but am not eligible for surgery. I'd so love to be rid of the aches and the imbalance that may fell me someday.
You probably have all bases covered, but be sure to know your osteoporosis status before surgery. Two pharmaceuticals that increase bone strength and increase integration with scoliosis hardware are Tymlos and Forteo.
And make sure you have the best surgeon.
gently

peggy87 | @peggy87 | Apr 11 1:43pm

cairemcl,
I have scoliosis too. Am currently 54 years old. Had surgery about 40 years ago with a Harrington rod used to fuse my T3-T12. Since then my cervical as well as lumbar spine have continued to curve and degenerate. Six months ago, I broke down and had to have more fusions as I wasn't able to walk, sit, stand, or sleep much. Doctor modified my Harrington rod and added on to it fusing my lumbar spine down to sacrum and fused my SI joints during the same surgery. It was a tough recovery, however, it has proved to be worthwhile. There is some residual pain and numbness which is to be expected. All in all I am happy with the results. I have led a very active lifestyle and am working my way back into it slowly. Walking without a cane! Best to you.
Peggy87

gently | @gently | Apr 11 4:08pm

Just an aside Harrington Rods haven't been used since 1990.

clairemcl | @clairemcl | Apr 11 10:47pm

In reply to @gently "clairemcl, I have scoliosis, but am not eligible for surgery. I'd so love to be rid..." + (show)

Thanks. I started Forteo last week, so it will be 3 months or more until surgery. And I have a very good neurosurgeon.

clairemcl | @clairemcl | Apr 11 10:54pm

In reply to @peggy87 "cairemcl, I have scoliosis too. Am currently 54 years old. Had surgery about 40 years ago..." + (show)

I was fortunate. I had only mild scoliosis when young and never needed surgery until it started progressing at some point within the last 5 or so years. I am glad you are happy with the results! Gives me encouragement too.

clairemcl | @clairemcl | Apr 11 10:56pm

In reply to @gently "Just an aside Harrington Rods haven't been used since 1990." + (show)

I’m not sure yet of what kind of rod is used. Is that also an issue?

gently | @gently | Apr 12 12:55am

clairemcl, there is a rare reaction to titanium that your surgeon may test for. Improvements to the hardware have made the Harrington obsolete. I didn't want you to think it was a concern. It might be interesting to ask the office which rod the doctor will implant and look it up. But I don't think you'll have an issue. Happy that you are on Forteo. I'm just finishing a year.

reneeksmith | @reneeksmith | Apr 13 6:20pm

clairemcl Good luck to you and blessings! I am facing similar surgery soon, stainless steel rods on either side of my spine and pins in the vertebrae for severe, sudden-unset scoliosis. I lost 7” in height in 3 years. I am 72 years old and although this surgery is risky with an 40% failure rate according to my surgeon, my life without surgery will be stronger and stronger opiates and a wheelchair, which is not an option for me. I wish you the best of luck and you will be in my prayers!