I had a L5-s1 anterior posterior fusion with instrumentation 20 months ago. I had zero back pain for 1 year after recovering. I now am having back pain. Surgeon wants to remove hardware. In addition to normal fusion with cage and bone graft, the surgeon tried to fuse my facet joints with bone fragments. Is this unusual? It is unclear whether facets have fused so i am nervous to have hardware removed. Any insight?

Welcome Judytothrt.

Someone will be along to help.

I had spine fusion L4-5 as well as a laminectomy about 8 years ago. The doctor did use a substance (can't remember name; but not bone ) that would grow bone. I never has my hardware removed. The surgeon saw no reason to remove the hardware. I was told at the time I had other back issues and would continue having pain. The surgeon said he performed surgery where was it was most needed.

My pain at the time was severe especially since the spinal cord was being so compressed. Also the surgeon said he had never seen such a "red angry nerve before". I could not stay the way I was so did improve somewhat after the fusion/laminectomy; but still pain continues. I see a Pain Management doctor and am on daily narcotic meds to help control the pain. Also had an unsuccessful spinal cord stimulator trial.

I would suggest getting another opinion.



Gerry