FAQ

Surgery :: Anterior lumbar interbody fusion :: Anterior Cervical Decompression Fusion
Lumbar Disc Replacement :: Posterior Cervical Spine Surgery :: Spinal Deformity Surgery
Lumbar Decompression and Fusion :: Lumbar Discectomy :: Surgical Risks

Commonly asked questions:

Will I need a blood transfusion?

Although some blood loss occurs during surgery, a blood transfusion is not generally required. More extensive surgeries may occasionally require a blood transfusion.

How long will I stay in hospital?

The length of your stay in the hospital will depend on the surgical procedure that you have had and can vary from an overnight stay to a week. It will also depend on how your wound is healing. You will be given a rough idea regarding the length of your stay during the pre-surgical education session. However, your surgeon will make a final decision after the operation.

When can I walk?

You will usually be encouraged to begin walking the morning after surgery.

Do I have to wear a back/neck brace?

Yes, you will be required to wear your brace when sitting, standing and walking after surgery. Your physiotherapist will wean you off as appropriate.

When can I have a shower after my surgery?

You can have a shower the day after your surgery. If your dressing gets wet, a new one can be applied.

When do I see my doctor after my surgery?

During your pre-surgical education session, the clinical co-ordinator will make an advance appointment for you to visit the rooms after you have been discharged from the hospital. This date can be changed depending on the length of your hospital stay.

Do I have stitches to come out?

The wound is usually closed with dissolvable sutures under the skin and these do not need to be removed. Metallic staples or non-dissolvable sutures, if used, will need removal. On your first appointment (10 days post-op) the surgical wound will be examined and the sutures/staples will be removed.

Do I need to attend physiotherapy sessions?

Following surgery a physiotherapy programme will be started to retrain you to maintain good posture and teach you the correct way of moving your spine.

Is there a certain position that I should sleep in at night?

The most important thing is for you to be comfortable. Some people find it comfortable to sleep with a pillow between their legs or under their thighs.

When is it safe to engage in sexual relations?

This is a very personal domain and is left up to you; whenever you think that you and your partner are ready. Clinically, a two-week period is recommended, provided you are the less active partner.

How long should I wait before driving a car?

The recommendation is to wait 3-4 weeks before driving a car. This may vary depending on your surgery and your progression during rehabilitation.

When can I go back to work?

This is assessed on patient-to-patient bases. If you have a physical occupation, it may take up to 3-6 months. With a sedate occupation, you could be back at work as soon as 3 weeks. Do not commence work until you speak to your doctor and physiotherapist.

When is it safe to bend and/or lift items heavier than a bag of sugar?

During the post-surgical physiotherapy sessions, you will be taught the correct way to bend and lift. Bending from the hips is fine if carried out in a controlled manner, but avoid heavy lifting objects (more than 3kg) till your physiotherapy commences.