Spinal Operation

Thank you Catterygirl and Luckygirl3 I am starting to feel reassured especially from a doctors wife . Like I said I know it’s a bit irrational and I feel I’ve been waiting a long time

I had a general anaesthetic for spinal surgery in 2024. I was very nervous about the GA but it really did go fine. I came round very quickly and did not feel unwell at all. I am sure that you will be very relieved when you wake up to find how simple it was.
Please do not worry.
My doctor OH used to say that you are your safest when under a GA because it is the only time when someone is being paid to monitor all your vital functions and keep you safe!

I had an epidural for the birth of our son about 37 years ago. I mainly read the newspaper. We have to trust the doctors. They spent many years training and took the Hippocratic Oath.

My husband just arrived home about two hours ago from GA. it took him a while to sleep it off but he was okay to return home the same day. He’s 70.

Thank you Charleygirl and Allsorts much appreciated. I’ve been told I have to have a GA , too long/risky for anything else, I’d asked about spinal block and sedation. I intend to ring again soon for an update so I could ask about cancellations , thanks again

Wishing you the very best. Routine for your surgeon but big,procedure for you. It will all go well and you pain free.

Spinal stenosis is very curable. The anaesthetist will be very helpful. Before my last knee replacement I was given the choice of staying sleepily awake or going to sleep. I chose the latter because I didn't want to hear the normal theatre sounds.

Have you asked the secretary if there is a cancellation you will be available? I think the sooner you are admitted the better for you. I am sure you will be fine.

Thank you butterandjam I have asked to speak to them

Do please tell the anaesthetist you're nervous ; they will take extra care to explain and reassure you.

I've had many GA's with no problems, never felt a thing.

Thank you LadyGracie I
manage on paracetamol too . That’s reassuring . I would be so good to get a life back

I had a TLIF (transforaminal interbody fusion) for degenerative disc disease, I suffered terribly with sciatica and could hardly walk.
I woke up from the anaesthetic, which honestly is nothing to fear, and immediately thought ‘I’m mended’ and I was.
I don’t tolerate morphine and was told by the anaesthetist that there are other painkillers they could try. I got by on paracetamol.
Don’t fear the surgery you’ll have your life back.

Any other comments gratefully received on including any non morphine painkillers people have had prescribed

Thank you so much both of you I’’ so grateful especially your comments Momac55 . I’ve been on the W/L since March 25 and I will be lucky if I have it before June, it just feels as if it’s hanging over me .

I had a lumbar laminectomy for severe spina stenosis and excruciating sciatica. I was very nervous and the same fear as you have described but I can honestly say it was the best thing I have ever done and don’t know why I let myself suffer all those years . The operation worked I was pain free straight after .
Try not to worry , look forward to getting your life back. All the best xx

You can speak to your anaesthetist before your op who can listen your fears. Ive had general anaesthetic and after they put the anaesthetic into your vein you quickly go to sleep. When you wake up you have no memory of being under. The chances of not being under properly are tiny. Hope it all goes well.