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Q) Once I decide to have the surgery, how soon can it actually take place?
A) Allow at least two-three weeks to prepare for the surgery. You may need additional examinations and testing, especially if you opt to donate your blood for the surgery. However, in cases of trauma or specific circumstances where there is a fast progression of symptoms, your surgery can happen faster.
Q) What are the materials used in my spinal surgery made of?
A) All materials used in spinal surgeries are made of a material that should not conflict with your current tissues or be rejected by your body, such as titanium or metal alloys.
Q) How painful is spinal surgery?
A) As with all forms of surgery, spinal surgery is painful, but the pain is manageable. For the first one to two days after surgery, pain is very well controlled with a PCA (patient controlled anesthesia). After that, oral medications, such as Percocet or Vicodin, are usually adequate. Sometimes patients require further (but less frequent) pain medication once they leave the hospital.
Q) What are the possible complications?
A) Although chronic illnesses increase the risk for any surgical patient, spinal surgery has a very low rate of complications. On a national average, fewer than 3-4 percent of patients experience joint infection or other major difficulties. Complications within our practice have been even lower. Infections are the most common complication and these can be prevented with pre-operative and post-operative antibiotics and gentle exercises that begin soon after surgery.
Q) Is bleeding around the incision after surgery normal?
A) It is not unusual to have some mild bleeding that soaks through the dressing but this should have stopped before you are released from the hospital. Should this happen and you are at home, you should reinforce the dressing with more sterile gauze. However, if bleeding persists, contact the office.
Q) What if I can't go home immediately after surgery?
A) Unfortunately, many patients don’t have a healthy spouse or close family member at home to help them during the initial days and weeks after surgery. For those unable to depend on family or close friends, staying in a skilled nursing facility at the hospital for one to three weeks is occasionally an alternative. Home Health care is also available for patients who are home bound and have a skilled need for therapy and/or nursing.
Q) Are there important tips for post-surgery?
A) It’s critically important to avoid situations in which you could fall or injure your back. You may need some assistance for a few weeks, especially while you are regaining your balance, strength, and flexibility. Do not sit in low seats or chairs, squat to pick objects off the floor, cross your legs, or drive until your physical therapist indicates you may begin to do so.
Q) When can I return to regular exercise?
A) Most patients who undergo spinal surgery are ready to return to exercise and light activities, such as golf, within three to four months after surgery. Follow the instructions from your physical therapist regarding regular, light exercise.
Q) How long will the effects of my spinal surgery last?
A) Disc replacement parts generally last for the life of the patient.
