High time someone posted

[Jen]

So it may as well be me.

I had surgery for my scoliosis at age 57, in March this year. I am fused T4 - pelvis. My surgery included osteotomies and laminectomies, and my surgeon used my own bone, donor bone and BMP for my fusion.

I've had a smooth ride through recovery and there isn't much I am not able to do. I will probably never be able to cut my own toenails and putting on socks requires help but I shave my legs, have done quite a lot of gardening in the last couple of months, and am back to kayaking.

I didn't require any aids, but just this week I bought a grabber because when I bend for something on the floor, I have to bend with my knees and I am now having knee discomfort from all the "squats" I do in a day. The grabber isn't always there when I need it, but it does save some knee wear and tear each day.

Any more stories? Are we allowed to name our wonderful surgeons?

[Admin]

Welcome to our new forum Jen and thank you for sharing your story. I'm sure you'll be joined by others in time.

It is not permissable on this forum for names of surgeons and hospitals to appear as indicated in our Terms of Use. We can assure you this is in the best interests of all concerned.

Spinal fusion for scoliosis is not a commonly-performed operation in middle-life. We suggest that it would be purposeful for you to indicate to your surgeon that you would be willing to have a chat with those of similar age who are to undergo similar surgery in the future. Knowing what to expect can be most reassuring in such circumstances.

[Rodverta Braefusion]

Hi Jen, welcome to the forum.

I had surgery this year of June 1st. I had a thorocolumbar curve of 58 degrees, now corrected to 5 degrees. I had a very smooth recovery also, quitting my pain meds of day 15. Yesterday, I had my 5 month checkup and all is good. I have two rods, 16 pedicle screws and two cages. My surgery was posterior and anterior and took 6 hours to complete. I am very happy with the results. My quality of life has immensely improved. Like you Jen, I can put my socks on, shave my legs, have not tried gardening and I don't do kayaking. Would love to go back to netball, but surgeon said not for at least another two years. Happy to share your experience or answer any questions you may have.

[Jen]

Thanks Admin.

Hi Rodverta - what a cracker of a name - thanks for your reply. I am blown away that you were off meds at day 15. I was still in hospital on day 15! I started to cut back at week 6.

You also got a remarkable correction. Mine was corrected from 68 degrees to 22, which I'm more than happy with. Even better, my rib hump has completely gone, and he managed to give me back my lordosis which had disappeared in more recent years. Cosmetically, I'm thrilled. Painwise, I have none and haven't since I got off all medication.

Sometimes I have to pinch myself because of my good fortune and I just hope my luck continues.

For all of us!