Revision surgery after L5 fusion

Posted by countzeller @countzeller, Feb 3 2:09pm

11/17 L5 fusion resulted in a worse severe compression of sciatic nerve from pressure exerted above the fusion. Thus revision therapy with fusion above L5 is a proposed “solution” which appears riskier than original surgery and an accompanying long recovery for a 78 yr old. Pain in surgical area,butt,thigh(hamstring area),some nerve pain not constant. Concern over permanently damage to sciatic nerve. Gabapentin,acetaminophen and tizanadine (muscle relaxer) for meds. Hoping to hear from folks with similar situation and revision surgery experience.

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sweaver61 | @sweaver61 | 3 days ago

I too had revision after L2 fractured right after surgery. Revision went to T10. Now I have a thoracic fusion from the fusion. They say I have severe osteoarthritis, but I am sure the pressure of the fusion against my curvature caused the fracture. Along with that the screws are loosening. I go tomorrow after 6 weeks of bracing and no activity to see what can be done. As far as pain I am now having tailbone pain and hip is grinding. I am 64. My meds are 1500mg of Robaxin and 50 mg of Tramadol, along with RA meds and gabapentin for fibromyalgia. Nothing seems to take pain away. Let me know if you find a solution .