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HomeReview of the conditionConsidering surgeryPreparing for surgeryAbout the procedureRecovering from surgeryPain and pain management Hospital stay Recovery and rehabilitation in the hospital Hospital discharge Convalescent assistance Conclusion

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Home « Clinical Services « Spine

Spine Surgery for Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Edited By: Jens R. Chapman, M.D.
Last updated Wednesday, December 29, 2004

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Recovering from surgery

Pain and pain management

Typically, the first two days after surgery can be quite painful to patients with spine fusion surgery. Therefore patients are usually given intravenous patient controlled analgesia machines. These programmable machines supply pain medication to a patient automatically, yet allow the patient to add further doses if needed within safe limits. After the first 2 days patients usually require oral pain medication for 2 to 12 weeks.

Hospital stay

Patients with complex spine surgery or multiple medical problems usually are observed in an Intensive Care Unit for 1-2 days. A hospital stay of 3-7 days is usually necessary.

Recovery and rehabilitation in the hospital

Patients are usually mobilized into an upright position or even out of the bed towards the end of the Intensive Care Unit stay. Patients are returned to most regular activities of daily living within 3 – 5 days.

Hospital discharge

Spine fusion patients are usually asked to wear a supportive and protective neck brace for 2-3 months after surgery. These braces should usually be worn around the clock. We strongly recommend an early return to a light aerobic conditioning program.

Convalescent assistance

We recommend help with showering, domestic maintenance, such as cooking and utilization of a driver for a minimum of 3 weeks, sometimes more.

Surgery for Rheumatoid arthritis of the spine at the University of Washington

If you are interested in making an appointment to discuss this procedure, you can request an appointment using our online referrals website. To request a referral online, please click here. You can also call 206-598-BONE (2663) to make an appointment.

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