How long does it take to fully recover from Alif surgery?
The ALIF is performed in a hospital setting. Patients typically go home a day or two after surgery; recovery takes 6 to 12 weeks.
How long before you can bend after spinal fusion?
Once the surgeon confirms on x-ray imaging that the fusion has completely solidified into one bone, a full return to an active lifestyle—including bending, lifting, and twisting—is permitted. This approval typically occurs about 6 months after the surgery, but sometimes it may take closer to 12 months.
Do you need a walker after spinal fusion surgery?
Your physician will encourage you to walk as much as possible. You will need an assistance device such as a walker or cane for the first week; however, you should strive to limit the use of this device after the first two to three weeks when you are on stable ground.
What is the recovery time from lumbar fusion surgery?
Generally, it will take about 3-6 days for the recovery period following discharge from the hospital. However, this phase of recovery is also affected by: How well you responded to your spinal fusion. Your overall natural ability to heal.
What are my alternatives to lumbar fusion?
Lumbar Spine Surgery Alternatives Artificial Disc Replacement. Artificial disc technology can be used in specific cases of lumbar degenerative disc disease. Motion Preservation Technologies. Vertebral Augmentation. Multilevel Lumbar Fusion.
What to expect from lumbar fusion?
About lumbar fusion surgery. Lumbar fusion is a surgical procedure that can treat the most common spine conditions in the lower back by replacing one or more damaged discs with bone grafts and implants. The traditional open spine procedure aims to reduce chronic pain resulting from nerve compression by removing bone and disc material pressing…
Is lumbar fusion surgery a reliable procedure?
Modern lumbar fusion surgery is a very reliable procedure, provided it is done by an appropriately skilled surgeon for the right patients.