MId-Term and Long-Term Outcomes of Spinal Fusion Surgery

I had spinal fusion a year ago and it is very bad - there is no mobility and it is painful when moving in certain ways, feeling like the rods/screws are coming out. This procedure also took a chunk of my verbrae off and I have a crater in my spine where that used to be - they never said anything about that.

It would seem that quite a few people report having significant issues after spinal fusion. My L5-S1 fusion back in 2017 was supposed to correct spondylithesis. Well, maybe it did, maybe it didn't. Did nothing for my pain. Interestingly, two previous MRIs did not report that issue. One has to wonder if this was a case of needing to fill a quota. Just thinking out loud.

@garytpickens - I think I've shared notes with you before...?

Asking others about their surgery experiences can be a slippery slope. Whatever someone else experienced may not reflect what you will experience. You're different people. Different ages and physical condition. The surgeons are different. The surgeries themselves are different. You get the point.

Listen to others but understand their experiences may not (probably won't be) your experiences.

I suspect you're trying to set your expectations. I understand. You are having a "big" surgery and you should expect a lengthy recovery. Have your support mechanism in place and plenty of books lined up to read. Be patient. Follow the surgeon's orders to a "t". Maintain a positive outlook. Hope for the best and prepare for some challenges.

Please let us know how your surgery goes! Sending positive energy your way!!!

I had L4-L5 fusion a year ago to address severe leg pain and spondylithesis. Leg pain disappeared right after surgery and I had a low back ache to deal with in the immediate post-op period. In the early weeks I had muscle pain and cramping in the trunk and legs; a result of being stretched out prone for 5 hours of surgery after months of flexing (shopping cart posture) to deal with leg pain. Heat and painkillers helped that. I’ve helped the back ache. Massage (in home for several weeks) helped my mood! I found after the first week that the more I moved the better I felt. At three months I was cleared for most activities. Long term, right now I am doing PT exercise daily and fighting off hip tendonosis. Why that surfaced I don’t know but I use a brace (a velcroed belt) that works great). I am 77 and very happy I had the surgery! The support from this group is invaluable. We are all with you in spirit and wishing you all the best for a smooth recovery process!

I am also scheduled for a TLIF procedure in 3 weeks. If anyone can share their experience I would greatly appreciate it.

Thanks everyone for your replies. Phil, I agree that asking my question could be a slippery slope, but I wanted to hear from people that had this procedure and how they are doing. Best health to you all!

Gary, once you get a home exercise program (HEP) from PT do not ever stop doing it. Trauma to the spine either from a fall or surgical can have long term issues if you don’t keep limber. And watch for osteoporosis early too which is t common looked at in men.