Hello everyone! Sorry it has taken me so long to get back online and let you supportive folks know the outcome of my surgery. I had the anterior portion on 4/17 and they replaced 4 lumbar discs. The next day I had the posterior portion with a fusion from T2 to the sacrum, along with 2 eight inch pedicle screws from the lower end of the rods to the iliac crest. I have almost no memory of the first 12 days after surgery, but my family kept a journal for me so I would know what went on. I am truly blessed with incredible family support. I was never left alone, day or night when in the hospital and rehab unit. My youngest daughter took all her vacation time and 6 weeks of family leave to care for me.
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My surgeon had told us that "most patients are pretty miserable for the first three months". Sums it up pretty well, I think! On the bright side:
the surgeons are thrilled with the results - I'm as straight as a stick.
I have grown 1 inch, and have lost 25 pounds. (too much actually...i am down to 118 # and am trying to GAIN weight!)
The one question that I cannot answer now is if it was worth it. I need to wait at least 9 mo to a year to see the final results. I will tell you that the pain and disability that sent me to surgery vanished into thin air. I know that many of you were thinking about me and wishing me well - my heartfelt thanks to you! If I can be of any help to any of you - you only have to ask!
Fondly,
Julie
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My surgeon had told us that "most patients are pretty miserable for the first three months". Sums it up pretty well, I think! On the bright side:
the surgeons are thrilled with the results - I'm as straight as a stick.
I have grown 1 inch, and have lost 25 pounds. (too much actually...i am down to 118 # and am trying to GAIN weight!)
The one question that I cannot answer now is if it was worth it. I need to wait at least 9 mo to a year to see the final results. I will tell you that the pain and disability that sent me to surgery vanished into thin air. I know that many of you were thinking about me and wishing me well - my heartfelt thanks to you! If I can be of any help to any of you - you only have to ask!
Fondly,
Julie
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