What to Expect After Lumbar Fusion

A lumbar fusion is performed to stop movement of one or more vertebrae in order to stop pain that occurs when the discs and joints are damaged in your back As with all major surgical procedures, risks and complications are possible, but there is a high rate of success with spinal fusion surgeries. After your spinal fusion, you can expect a lengthy recovery.

Hospital Stay

• Expect to spend some time in the hospital.

  After a lumbar fusion, patients often stay in the hospital for up to one week before discharge. When your condition is stable, the physician will release you.

Diet

• After surgery, you will be given ice chips until your bowels begin functioning properly after the anesthesia. You will then be given a clear liquid diet consisting of juices, jello, and broth. You will gradually work up to a regular diet.

Pain Management

• You'll receive pain meds through an IV.

  After surgery, you will experience pain and swelling on the surgery site. The nurse may apply an ice pack to your back to bring any swelling down. Immediately after surgery, you will receive pain relief through your IV. After a couple days, the doctor will prescribe another form of pain medication, which you may continue to take for a few weeks until the pain subsides.

Physical Therapy

• During your stay in the hospital, a physical therapist will teach you the proper ways to dress, walk, and do other activities without putting strain on your back. Your therapist will teach you certain exercises to help you tone the muscles that stabilize your lower back area.

Returning to Work

• It may be several weeks before you can return to work. It is extremely important that you avoid heavy lifting, bending, prolonged sitting, twisting, and even driving for six weeks.