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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Are The Complications Expected During Pregnancy After A Spinal Fusion?

I had a spinal fusion of my L4/L5, a laminectomy and a few other bits a pieces approximately 6 months ago. This was due to a degenerative condition and repeated injuries as I am a full time member of the Australian Army. I ve just found out I am now 6.5 weeks pregnant. I m 160cm tall and weigh 60kg. I want to find out about the risks involved and likely complications or alternatively, where I can go to get further information?
Mon, 23 Mar 2015
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi,
I understand your concern.
The fusion operation before pregnancy does not affect growth/development of fetus.
The problems to the mother in pregnancy depend on the gap between fusion operation & pregnancy,I am afraid you have conceived a bit earlier after your surgery. It's hardly 6 months gap--You may have to face -
- pain in lower back and also sacroiliac joint - the spine being immobilized, the stress on spine is distributed to adjoining sacroiliac joints( which are more movable due to pregnancy)
- You may not get the benefit of sub dural anesthesia while in labor pains.
- during delivery more stress is put on coccyx ,so you may have chronic pain in the joint after delivery.
* From this point of view a combined opinion/management by your surgeon & gynecologist would help you.
Thanks.
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What Are The Complications Expected During Pregnancy After A Spinal Fusion?

Hi, I understand your concern. The fusion operation before pregnancy does not affect growth/development of fetus. The problems to the mother in pregnancy depend on the gap between fusion operation & pregnancy,I am afraid you have conceived a bit earlier after your surgery. It s hardly 6 months gap--You may have to face - - pain in lower back and also sacroiliac joint - the spine being immobilized, the stress on spine is distributed to adjoining sacroiliac joints( which are more movable due to pregnancy) - You may not get the benefit of sub dural anesthesia while in labor pains. - during delivery more stress is put on coccyx ,so you may have chronic pain in the joint after delivery. * From this point of view a combined opinion/management by your surgeon & gynecologist would help you. Thanks.