Spondylolisthesis and pars defect: Considering L5-S1 fusion

So I am looking for some direction. I literally live in pain everyday. I am a 29 year old male. I have had 2. L5-S1 back surgeries. The first was in high school where they did a partial discectomy with a lamenectomy. The second was in 2011 where a different doctor did another partial discectomy. I have had a few consults since then but am very nervous about my options. I have had another MRI and reads that I have two more small buldges on that level and that the level is compressing with lots of scar tissue. I am taking Percocet every 3 hours (10-325)just to function through the day. I cant even hardly walk with out them. The consensus I keep getting from a few doctors are saying they don't want to fuse that level due to stress on levels above and below it and having more issues within 5 years. I have tried injections, therapy, massages, tens units, pretty much if it's out there I've tried it. One doctor even said to try another discectomy, which I thought was crazy. I really need some help from people that truly care about my well being. Please help and give me some direction from the best doctors available! I am struggling!!!!

I am 78 years old. Recent MRI shows severe stenosis L1 through L5 both central and foraminal. There is conus and thecal sac compression from L1, L2 disc herniation.
There is also arachnoiditis at L3, L4 with nerve root clumping. My wonderful neurosurgeon recommends surgery which he honestly says is a 10 hour procedure with extreme pain to be expected. My question is has anyone my age had a surgery of this length? Also would like to know about experience with arachnoiditis which my surgeon says will continue to cause pain as surgery can’t help it.

I was involved in a semi versus semi crash. Due to at fault driver running stop sign. I had surgery on my knee in December of 2024. I had a L5 S1 spinal fusion on January 27 2025. I am having trouble with numbness in legs and feet. Enlarged prostate, erectile dysfunction and major trouble regulating my blood pressure. Chills on torso. And cannot drive for more than 30 min. My blood pressure yesterday was a high of 177/122 with taking meds. My primary doctor is trying to adjust. But a month at a time. I get many dizzy spells through out the day. I am getting very concerned about what my life will be like?

Looking for anyone who has had L5S1 fusion. What has been your outcome?

Looking for anyone who has had L5S1 fusion. What has been your outcome?

Yes, I had that fusion back in 2017. I had back and buttock pain from a ski fall. I had the pain somewhat managed with meds but still had bad days. So, I was referred to orthopedic surgeon. He ordered an MRI which supposedly showed(two previously ones did not show anything) spondylolisthesis. Being new to the game, i was anxious to fix something that might be causing the pain. The fusion went without a hitch although recovery wasn't very pleasant. It did nothing to help my pain. If I could go back, I don't think I would do it again. Hope this helps.

I have multiple fusions from C3 to T1 and L1 L2, L3 4 and L4 5 almost unimaginable pain. Disc is bulging between L5 S1. I am told the fusion there probably won’t take the pain away and it will rob me of a lot of motion. I am up for a spinal cord stimulator to help with the pain. Be careful and research that particular fusion.