What are the complications of a spinal fusion?
But as with any surgery, spinal fusion carries the potential risk of complications….Potential complications include:
- Infection.
- Poor wound healing.
- Bleeding.
- Blood clots.
- Injury to blood vessels or nerves in and around the spine.
- Pain at the site from which the bone graft is taken.
What are the possible complications associated with surgery on the lumbar spine?
Nerve injury and paralysis bleeding inside the spinal column (extradural spinal haematoma) leaking of spinal fluid (incidental durotomy) accidental damage to the blood vessels that supply the spinal cord with blood. accidental damage to the nerves when they’re moved during surgery.
How serious is lumbar spinal fusion?
Spinal fusion surgery is a very serious procedure that is typically performed by an orthopedic surgeon or a neurosurgeon. Because of how extensive it is, the doctors usually have a full surgical team with them. Before any surgery, it’s important to speak with your doctor about their experience.
What are the long term effects of spinal fusion?
The spinal muscles provide critical stability and support for the spine. Unfortunately, lumbar fusion significantly compromises the health and integrity of these muscles. This is in turn can lead to spine instability and additional injuries including degeneration and arthritis.
What are the symptoms of a failed lumbar fusion?
Symptoms
- Smoking.
- Formation of scar tissue.
- Recurring or persistent disc disease at adjacent levels.
- Continued pressure from spinal stenosis.
- Instability or abnormal movement.
- Pseudoarthrosis or failure of the fusion.
- Nerve damage within the nerve, arachnoiditis.
How many years do spinal fusions last?
1 to 2 Years That said, the vertebrae typically need to continue healing and fusing for between 12 to 18 months.
How do you know if you messed up a spinal fusion?
Symptoms may include chronic pain in the back, neck, or legs, which can be dull or sharp, aching, burning, or radiating. The pain may continue after surgery or reappear several days or weeks afterward.
What are the side effects of lumbar fusion?
Pain and infection
What is the recovery time for lumbar fusion surgery?
Crucial Time for Fusion. During this time period of about 1 to 3 months after the surgery,the lumbar fusion bone mass is becoming established.
Is lumbar fusion surgery a reliable procedure?
Spinal fusion is generally a safe procedure. But as with any surgery, spinal fusion carries the potential risk of complications. Potential complications include: Preparation before surgery may involve trimming hair over the surgical site and cleaning the area with a special soap or antiseptic.
What to expect from lumbar fusion?
– Excess lifting (anything over 10 to 15 pounds) – Bending forward and backward – Twisting the upper body to the sides