“To me this surgery is a miracle.”
“I was in so much pain before and I have returned to all my daily activities pain-free!”
Dorothy, XLIF® Patient
Age: 87
Hometown: Thousand Oaks, CA
Surgeon: Dr. Erik Spayde of Conejo Spine, Thousand Oaks, CA
Procedure: XLIF®
Surgery Date: October 6, 2009
Life Prior to Surgery: Dorothy struggled with chronic pain for most of her adult life and underwent back surgery over 20 years ago, which provided some relief. Over time, her pain returned and escalated to the point where she couldn’t perform daily activities like grocery shopping, cooking, gardening, or going to church.
Dorothy tried physical therapy but that only made her pain worse. She finally couldn’t stand it any longer. The pain severely restricted her mobility, and she didn’t want to be confined to a wheelchair for the rest of her life. The pain even began to prevent her from sleeping. Her grandson and her previous orthopaedic surgeon both referred Dorothy to Dr. Spayde who recommended that she undergo another spine surgery. At that point, Dorothy was desperate for a solution, and wanted to her live her life fully again. She decided to go undergo the XLIF procedure.
Situation Today: Dorothy underwent XLIF surgery in 2009 and walked immediately after. Although she struggled with some post-op surgical incision pain and soreness, Dorothy quickly became pain-free and felt fantastic. She used a walker for two-to-three months which assisted with stability. She maintained a positive attitude throughout her recovery, which she felt really helped her achieve results. Dorothy underwent regular in-home physical therapy sessions to assist her with walking and strength. She has gladly been able to resume her active lifestyle again, and is back to doing all the things she missed so much.
Important Note: As with any spine surgery, there are potential benefits and possible risks associated with the XLIF procedure. It is important that you discuss the possible risks and potential benefits of XLIF with your doctor prior to receiving treatment, and that you rely on your physician’s judgment. Only your doctor can determine whether you are a suitable candidate for this procedure.
