A few weeks ago I had an MRI done on my persistent lower back problem. It has been causing me pain for the last 10 years, but with the help of modern medicine and drugs, it has been manageable. However, with the uncertainty of Tommy's job and our insurance plus the harmful effects these drugs, I have decided to move forward with the surgery.
According to medical terminology, my L4-L5 disc is very degenerated and narrowed. There is a modest predominantly central herniation which indents the thecal sac and impinges upon the L5 roots as the begin to enter their lateral recesses and exit the thecal sac. The L5-S1 disc is also degenerated but not as bad. All of this is considered advanced degeneration of the lumbar spine for my age. Since I have severe arthritis in this area as well, disc replacement is not an option for me. Instead, I will be having lumbar spine fusion.
An incision will be made in my lower back and a bone graft will be taken from my pelvis. The spine will be lifted in the areas of degeneration and the graft will be inserted causing the bony surfaces to grow together.
It's a 5 hour surgery and I'm expected to be in the hospital 3 days. I will be out of work about 10-12 days before I have to get back. I am looking forward to finally being free of this pain. So please keep me in your thoughts on April 30th as I go under the knife.
Note to self: Don't ever go cliff jumping again....it may be fun, but it's dangerous and you could land wrong resulting in a decade of back pain.
The Best Defense is a Good Offense
22 hours ago
Sherry, my heart goes out to you...wish I lived closer so I could be of some help to you afterwards. Hang in there, hopefully this will get rid of your pain and make your back a lot better.
ReplyDeleteGod, Sherry, this just sucks. But, if anyone can come through it with a good attitude, it's you.
ReplyDeleteGood luck and we'll be thinking of you.