Re: Opinions on spinal fusion/Kris in VA

[Guest guest]

Hello everyone,

I have have two fusions; the first was done through an abdominal approach.  L5 -

S1 were fused using rods, a cage and pedical screws.  I had no disc left so a

spacer was inserted and my neurosurgeon used Trinity Matrix.  I have no bone

graft or donor bone.

I then fell 11 months later and shattered what had been repaired, so he went

back in through a series of six small incisions in my back and repaired

everything. 

Prior to the surgery, my pain level was an average of 8+ daily and I could

barely walk with bladder and bowel issues.  Today, I still have chronic pain and

always will but NOTHING like before. 

My recovery the first time was approximately 9 weeks, and around 6 weeks the

second. I have no regrets and would do it again if faced with the same decision.

Kris in VA