@karenoharmon
Do you have a good support system to help you prepare your home prior to surgery for post surgery recon? Do you have support system planned for after surgery? Counseling can help you prepare and knowing as much as possible of the procedure you are having, what the preparation is and what recovery will be will help. Ask your doctors a lot of questions share your concerns. Make sure you get all the answers you need to prepare. Recovery can be 6 months to a year. I had L3-L5 decompressed and fused and the first month was the worst, first 3 months pain reduced/function improved, but 6 month to a year to really know how successful the surgery was. Physical therapy once cleared will be important to reduce formation of scar tissue and strengthen/stretch surrounding muscles, etc. I pray you have a good outcome.
Here is what AI says about your procedures:
T10 to Pelvis Instrumented Fusion L5-S1
This procedure involves the surgical fusion of the lumbar spine from the T10 vertebra down to the L5-S1 level. Instrumented fusion typically uses rods and screws to stabilize the spine, promoting bone healing and preventing movement between the vertebrae. This is often indicated for conditions like severe degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, or spinal deformities.
Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF)
The TLIF is a minimally invasive technique used to fuse the lumbar vertebrae. It involves removing the intervertebral disc and replacing it with a bone graft or implant to promote fusion. The "transforaminal" approach means that the surgery is performed through the foramen, which is the opening where the nerve roots exit the spinal column. This method can help relieve nerve compression and stabilize the spine.
Multilevel Ponte Osteotomy
A Ponte osteotomy is a surgical technique used to correct spinal deformities, particularly in cases of kyphosis or scoliosis. It involves removing a wedge of bone from the vertebrae to allow for realignment. When performed at multiple levels, it can significantly improve spinal alignment and reduce deformity.
Tethering to T9 with Possible Cement Augmentation
Tethering refers to the use of a flexible device to stabilize the spine while allowing for some movement. This can be particularly useful in pediatric patients or in cases where growth is still occurring. Cement augmentation may be used to provide additional support to the vertebrae, especially in cases of osteoporosis or when the bone quality is poor.
@dlydailyhope thanks so much for your response! It's hard to even think through the questions.