Connect
Constipation after TLIF
Does anyone know if constipation post Lumbar TLIF surgery is normal? This is day 5 that I haven't done #2 since the surgery. Is that too long?
I have gone 3-4 days without doing # 2, for example after a long flight (13 hours in addition to 8 hours). So not sure if what's happening now is "normal" for me, given my baseline.
The doc gave me Dulcolax Suppositoria about 3 hours ago but it's not doing anything. Not sure if I should be concerned?
Like
Helpful
HugInterested in more discussions like this? Go to the Spine Health Support Group.
Connect
I had spine surgery for L3-L4 stenosis in 2021. This was second back surgery ( herniated L5-S1 in 1992) both done by a Neurosurgeon. I stay away from Orthopedic surgeons to prevent metal screws, brackets and further damages from spinal fusion procedures.
The opioid pain meds caused extended constipation that was very painful in combination with the healing and nerve readjustment post-op. If taking opioids, I’d recommend stopping them if you can. That fixed me in addition to Ducolax and double bagging Smooth Move Senna tea.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionMy wife has had the same issue chronicaly due to using opiods for pain control. Whe she has a surgery it is worse. You don't want to go too long or you can get impacted which is bad.
She will take a max dose of ducalax everyday till it happens.
Also you may want to contct your surgeons office for their advice
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionThank you for the replies. After the Dulcolax Supp and two Dulcolax pills, my bowel movements finally came back! Six days after the surgery.