What to Expect Before Back Surgery

It’s no secret that back pain can profoundly impact one's quality of life. It often interferes with the ability to perform daily tasks, maintain employment, and engage in beloved hobbies, creating a frustrating cycle of discomfort and limited mobility. That’s why many adults are opting for back surgery — in fact, each year, around 900,000 adults in the United States undergo spine surgery. This significant statistic underscores just how many people are suffering from debilitating back pain and are ready for lasting relief. 

For those who have exhausted non-invasive back pain treatment options, back surgery may be recommended as a potential solution. While the prospect of undergoing surgery can be daunting and anxiety-inducing, having a clear understanding of what to expect before the procedure can significantly alleviate stress and help you feel more prepared for your journey towards back pain relief.

Read on to learn helpful tips about preparing for back surgery from the highest-rated spine surgeon serving Temecula, Riverside, and Corona.

Understanding the Risks and Benefits of Having Back Surgery

Like all surgical procedures, back surgery comes with potential risks and benefits. While surgical treatment of spine conditions is generally safe, every surgical intervention carries inherent risks. This underscores the importance of choosing a medical professional who approaches each surgical back procedure with the utmost seriousness and care.

Potential Benefits of Back Surgery:

The primary benefit of back surgery is the significant relief of back pain and improved function of the neck and spine. Additionally, successful back surgery also leads to: 

• Reduced chronic pain in the legs and neck 
• Improved mobility and improved flexibility of the spine 
• Enhanced quality of life
• Ability to return to work, hobbies, and daily activities
• Reduced dependence on pain medications and muscle relaxants, which can be addictive 

Potential Risks of Back Surgery:

While complications are relatively rare, patients should be aware of the following potential risks:

• Infection: Any surgical procedure carries a risk of infection, which can occur at the incision site or deeper within the surgical area.
• Bleeding: Excessive bleeding during or after surgery is a possibility anytime a surgical incision is made.
• Dural leak: This involves cerebrospinal fluid leakage, which can lead to a temporary headache.
• Weakness or paralysis: Although rare, damage to nerves or the spinal cord can result in weakness or, in extreme cases, paralysis.
• Blood clots: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can occur, particularly in patients who are immobile for extended periods after surgery.
• Pulmonary embolism: A complication where a blood clot travels to the lungs.
• Injury to adjacent structures: During surgery, nearby organs, blood vessels, or other structures could potentially be damaged.
• Stroke or heart attack: These are rare but serious risks, particularly in older patients or those with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions. Having a pre-surgical medical exam can decrease this risk. 

The likelihood of these complications varies depending on factors such as the type of back surgery you’re getting, your overall health, age, and your adherence to pre- and post-operative instructions. Your surgeon will discuss these risks in detail and how they apply to your specific case, ensuring you have a comprehensive understanding before proceeding with surgery.

How to Prepare for Back Surgery

Preparing for back surgery involves both physical and mental readiness. By following these steps, you'll be setting yourself up for the best possible surgical experience and recovery: 

• Follow your surgeon's pre-operative instructions carefully, including when to stop eating and drinking before your procedure
• Arrange for transportation home from surgery and for help at home during your recovery period
• Prepare your home for post-surgery comfort, which may include getting extra pillows to sleep with, a toilet riser, bathtub chair, walker, or long-handled grabber tool to reach things without bending over
• Stock up on easy-to-prepare meals and snacks 
• Gather loose, comfortable clothing for your hospital stay and early recovery
• Organize and bring all necessary medical documents to the hospital, including your personal identification and insurance cards
• Pack a hospital bag with essentials like a phone charger, toothbrush, and slippers
• Discuss any concerns or anxieties with your healthcare team
• Set realistic expectations for your recovery timeline
• Plan activities to keep yourself occupied during recovery, such as books or movies
• Arrange for transportation to and from physical therapy appointments 
• Get any necessary medication filled before surgery day 

Being well-prepared can significantly reduce stress and anxiety, allowing you to focus on healing and recovery. 

Where to Find the Best Spine Surgeon in Riverside, Temecula, and Corona

While the prospect of surgery can be daunting, proper preparation can significantly ease your anxiety and set the stage for optimal healing. Dr. Babak Khamsi understands the importance of this preparation phase and has developed a patient-centered approach to make the process as comfortable and convenient as possible.

One key aspect of Dr. Khamsi's approach is his flexibility in scheduling. He diligently accommodates each patient's unique circumstances, ensuring that they have adequate time for recovery before returning to work. This personalized scheduling allows patients to plan their surgery with minimal disruption to their professional and personal lives.

Located in Riverside and serving back surgery patients in Temecula and Corona, Dr. Khamsi offers patients the freedom to choose their preferred surgical facility in most cases. This flexibility allows patients to select the most convenient location for them and their families, which can contribute to a more relaxed and positive surgical experience.

Perhaps most importantly, Dr. Khamsi has developed a comprehensive protocol for post-operative recovery. This protocol is designed to ensure that patients receive adequate pain management and achieve a level of independence before being discharged. By carefully managing pain and promoting early mobility, Dr. Khamsi helps patients regain their independence more quickly, leading to a smoother transition back to their daily routines.

By choosing Dr. Khamsi for your back surgery, you're not just selecting a skilled surgeon but also a comprehensive care approach that prioritizes your comfort, convenience, and swift recovery. Remember, proper preparation is key to a successful surgical outcome, and Dr. Khamsi and his team are committed to supporting you every step of the way.

Ready to get relief from chronic back pain with the best spine surgeon in Riverside?