Healing time for L4 L5 spinal fusion?

Answer 1

I had a C4 to C6 fusion. My bones accepted my donor's bones well and my cervical spine fused properly to the donor graft. It took 8 weeks before I could return to University. I got my neck brace off at about 8 weeks, but I didn't feel completely better for at least another 10 weeks. Sooo, I personally returned to life after about 2 months. I do not know if this is an average time, but if your body accepts the grafts you will be on your feet soon enough. Do as the doctor says, do not fool around and you will get your life back in time.

All patients react to surgery and to rehab differently. You need to allow 6 months to 1 year for complete recovery so that you won't be tempted to rush and try to force your body to heal.

Answer 2

Hi, I am 23 (India).... and gone through C5-C6 Spinal Fusion Surgery as per doc said.

the good news is my pain is completely gone, I don't know how it will be in the future. I just took a rest of 2 months .......... (It was Nightmare)....

The doc says the new bone which in replaced in my neck will grow, so it will be alright in long run, (Hope it will, god knows).

The motion has been decreased, at C5-C6 segment.

I heard that Arthoplasty is one of your options (Which is costly & I don't know much about it), this surgery gives the full motion, but the thing is you should be careful, there are so many chance, the artificial disc may not fit.................

Regards,

Mahesh.

Answer 3

Forever-you can remove the plate and pins but the fusion remains