Hi. I'm waiting for workers compensation authorization for a level four lumbar fusion from the S-1 up. This will be done with a decompression too. I was injured on the job and have attempted all conservative measures and now need an assisted walking device to move. I'm a mid forties male with five growing children. Apparently my surgeon is going thru the back. All of the damage has been confirmed via a MRI, X-Ray, Mylo and disco grams. I will need rods, screws, plates and cages with bone from my hips. I have osteoarthritis, DDD, stenosis, facet syndrome and possible fractures.
Any one else been down my road who can comment on what I may expect or who could point me in the right direction?
Thank you!!
CPF2997

hi sorry about your injury. I had a acdf of c 5-6 in may 06 and it didn't fuse so just had a posterior revision surgery on april 18th going through the back is quite painful not too scare you but you will need alot of help for the first few weeks, and you won't be able to drive for atleast amonth or more. You won't be able to lift and make sure you get pt. If possible see if you can get a hospital bed it will help alot. What ever you do DO NOT WORK for atleast 3 months if not longer. Before surgery ask your doc what kinds of meds he will send you home with and if possible get then 2 days before surgery .as I had to wail a few days before the pharm. had it. good luck and god bless

Hi!
I had acdf on C5/6,6/7 on Feb 14th this year...the good news is I had cages and plates too and have had very good luck. I was back at work 3 weeks post-op, and have had little trouble since. I know lumbar is more difficult, and requires more recovery..but cages and plates are the way to go...no risk of failed fusion, as it is all mechanical.
Good luck!!
Dave