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Had Laminoforaminotomy surgery on Right L3-S1, now wound leaks
Spine Health | Last Active: Aug 17, 2025 | Replies (20)Comment receiving replies
@grayhairs
Congratulations on the successful procedure!
I had open L3-L5 decompression and fusion surgery in 2024 and it also helped with my pain/numbness in back/legs/feet. I wasn’t able to shower for 2 weeks and the bandage stayed on for 2 weeks. I stayed overnight in the hospital after the surgery to manage pain and allow for a certain amount of drainage from the would before they would release me.
What type of bandage did they put on your incision(s)? Do you have dissolvable stitches and have you been to your first post op appointment? Did they give instructions not to bathe for a period of time after the procedure? Have you called the surgeon’s office and medical team to ask them about the drainage?
If it is clear and there is no redness/swelling/warmth on the incision(s), it may just be normal healing.
Replies to "@grayhairs Congratulations on the successful procedure! I had open L3-L5 decompression and fusion surgery in 2024..."
Congratulations to you also. No special bandage as it came off very easy after 3 days per their instructions, I was free to shower after 3 days. Dissolvable stitches, my post op appointment is a week and a half away, but I did see the PA about the wound leakage and that are keeping a eye on it. They requested follow up on 8-18. My hope is that it is normal healing. Did you have leakage after being released?
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@grayhairs
Did you do anything different on day 4 that would cause the drainage to start (did you bend or twist)?
Here is some information to monitor if there is a CSF leak:
Signs of a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak following spine surgery can vary, but some common symptoms to watch for include:
Common Signs and Symptoms
Clear Fluid Drainage: Leakage of clear or slightly pink fluid from the surgical incision or nose.
Headache: A severe headache, often described as a "thunderclap" headache, which may worsen when sitting or standing and improve when lying down.
Nausea and Vomiting: These symptoms can accompany headaches.
Neck Stiffness: Difficulty in moving the neck or stiffness may occur.
Changes in Vision: Blurred or double vision can be a sign of increased intracranial pressure.
Hearing Changes: Some may experience ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or other auditory changes.
Dizziness or Balance Issues: Feeling lightheaded or having trouble with balance can occur.
Additional Considerations
Fever: A fever may indicate an infection, which can be a complication of a CSF leak.
Neurological Symptoms: Any new weakness, numbness, or changes in sensation should be reported immediately.
If any of these symptoms are present after spine surgery, it is essential to contact a healthcare provider promptly for evaluation and management. Early intervention can help prevent complications associated with CSF leaks.