Cervical fusion went well, now S1-L3 ALIF and PLIF needs done

Posted by cabits @cabits, Nov 12, 2022

I've had lumbar problems from an injury over 40 years ago and just put up with the pain and discomfort. Had C4-C7 fused and a year out much better. Time to do the lumbar. 4 neurosurgeons had same diagnosis and treatment, ALIF & PLIF, I feel good they all had same treatment plan. MRI and CT show it all. There was no question of what was wrong. Bilateral Pars Defect, Anterolisthesis, Schmorls nodes all levels, fracture L5, Chronic end plate, Bilateral facet hypertorphy, chronic degenerative disc, on and on.

My question is recovery? Any suggestions on sleeping? Exercising? I have an allergy to opioids, so pain med choice is very small. I've also heard many complaints with the rods and them needing to be removed later due to pain and mobility problems. Docs all say I need them.

Anybody else suggestions to try and have a good recovery?

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Spine Health Support Group.

Amanda Roe | @amandajro | Nov 12, 2022

Hello @cabits. You sure have been through a lot but seem to have a very positive and hopeful outlook on continuing the journey. I'd like to bring in members @kpickowitz and @jmweissler, who have both shared about ALIF and PLIF, in hopes they can offer some helpful information on recovery to prepare you a bit more.

When will you be going through with the procedure?