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The Posterolateral Spinal Fusion (PLF) procedure aims to improve mobility and correct any misalignment that occurs in the vertebral bone. The surgery involves the insertion and fusion of bone grafts between elements in the posterior (back) part of the spine, aiding in the formation of a single, solid bone.
Pre-procedure: Your specialist will make a thorough evaluation of your symptoms and will recommend that you undergo imaging scans such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or computed tomography (CT) scans to assess your spine. Based on the results obtained, your specialist will discuss appropriate surgical interventions.
Procedure: You'll be positioned on your abdomen for the procedure. A minor cut is made at the rear of the vertebrae, based on the tool's specifications. Access to the spine is gained by expanding the nearby muscles. Next, the lamina is extracted to visualise the nerve roots. To increase space for nerves, the facet joints above the nerve roots are trimmed. The bone graft material is then inserted between the transverse processes at the spine's rear. Stability and fusion promotion in the spine are facilitated by the use of screws and rods.
Post-procedure: Since the Postero Lateral spinal fusion PLF in bhubaneswar is minimally invasive, you may be discharged on the same day. Your specialist will advise and provide you with post-operative instructions.
Posterolateral Spinal Fusion surgery addresses various conditions, including, but not limited to, spinal injury, degenerative disc disease, vertebral bone dislocation, spondylolisthesis, spinal stenosis, spinal tumours, and other spinal-related conditions where conventional treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or rest did not work. A comprehensive evaluation is made to locate the origin of symptoms, enabling specialists to decide on suitable treatment interventions to address the issue.
The surgical goal of the Posterolateral Spinal Fusion procedure is to provide stability to the spinal cord. The surgery addresses your back pain by enhancing bone fusion and facilitating the healing of the spine. Your specialist considers various parameters, such as your age, general condition, and severity of your condition, to assess whether you are a good candidate for the procedure. Since the surgery is minimally invasive, recovery is quick, and you can resume your normal activities within several weeks.
The recovery period for every patient is unique and is based on the severity of the condition, age, overall health, and pace of recovery. Since Posterolateral Fusion Surgery is a minimally invasive procedure, you may be discharged on the same day after the surgery, although some may require hospitalisation until recovery. Symptoms may subside immediately after surgery; however, this also depends on the individual’s condition. Moreover, most patients can resume their normal activities within several weeks. It is essential to follow your specialist’s post-operative instructions and the medication schedule, if any.
Potential risks and complications associated with Posterolateral Spinal Fusion Surgery include:
Your medical healthcare provider will inform you regarding risks and complications that could arise during the surgery and will be treated if they manifest.
The ability to return to work and resume normal activities after Posterolateral Spinal Fusion Surgery is based on your recovery progress and the intensity of the condition. Around 6–10 weeks post-surgery, you should be able to move and perform a few exercises with limitations. You should be able to return to work around 11–19 weeks post-surgery and be able to do normal activities without any help. However, you should still follow the exercise programmes taught by your physical therapist. Moreover, the pain should subside at a minimum level during this period. Between 20 weeks and 1 year following surgery, you should regain full ability to engage in exercises and carry out daily tasks.
Most patients can go home on the day of surgery or may stay in the hospital for a few days after surgery based on the severity of the patient’s condition and the extent of recovery. Your specialist will recommend a physical therapist and an occupational therapist to work with you on performing basic activities. Symptoms generally start to subside between 4 and 6 weeks post-surgery, although general chores are to be performed with limitations. Your specialist will schedule follow-up appointments to assess your progress and may advise you to consume medications in case you have any mild symptoms after surgery.
You will be able to shower after your surgery. However, you should be cautious about keeping your incision site clean and avoid any water near the wound, as it may increase your risk of infection and interfere with the healing process. Cover your incision site with a waterproof bandage or tape. You should make sure that the dressing is changed every 2–3 days or as per your doctor’s instructions. You are not supposed to bathe until your wound has completely healed. The wound-healing process usually takes around 2 weeks after surgery. It is essential to follow your doctor’s advice to enhance your recovery process.
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