You should expect moderate to significant pain after spinal fusion surgery, especially in the first few days. Pain will be managed aggressively with a combination of medications, which may include:
Opioid pain medications: Administered intravenously (IV) via a PCA (Patient-Controlled Analgesia) pump, or orally.
Non-opioid pain relievers: Such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or gabapentin.
Muscle relaxants.
Nerve blocks or epidural analgesia: In some cases, to provide more localized pain relief.
The goal is to manage your pain to a tolerable level that allows you to participate in early mobilization and physical therapy.
Disc replacement surgery provides a less invasive alternative to spinal fusion surgery and protects against adjacent level degeneration.
Medically Reviewed By
Dr. med. Karsten Ritter-Lang M.D.
Diploma of medicine (Institut of Immunology Charité)
1988 – 1991
Doctorade of medicine (Institut of Immunology Charité)
Senior consultant of spinal surgery in two hospitals (DRK Berlin Westend and Stenum Hospital) and private practice in Potsdam,ENDOCERT Certified awarded the title and certification of Specialist for Trauma Surgery (Facharzt für Unfallchirurgie) in 2009