i had a l5 s1 fusion march 2008 been in alot of pain since now they think its the hardware giving me all the problems can anybody tell me what to expect the recovery time,pain, so on. thanks
I could be in the same category as you....though my hardware was put in 16 years ago. i have pain to the touch on my back and my theory is hardware removal. Have you found out any additional information? I've done research but haven't found to many tips or information on hardware removal.
My biggest advice is to anyone who is having hardware removed is to make sure that this is in fact your problem - ask for a discogram or a hardware block.
Not to scare anyone because each case is different: I had my hardware removed and things were not complete fused so everything fell apart and I had an unstable back and needed another surgery to put everything back in and while they were in I had two additional levels fused. Just because this happened to me does not mean it will happen to you but I highly recommend you get a 2/3rd opinon on this.
Good luck and I pray that you find some relief soon. I know how hard it is to suffer in pain day after day.
