Based on my personal experience, I can tell you that the hospital stay for a spinal cord stimulator surgery is usually not very long. In fact, it is typically an outpatient procedure, which means you will be able to go home the same day.
However, you should plan on spending around 6 hours at the Surgery Center or Hospital. This time is needed for pre-surgical preparations, the surgery itself, and post-operative recovery. The medical staff will monitor your condition and make sure you are stable before allowing you to leave.
During the 6-hour period, you may undergo various pre-surgical procedures such as getting your vital signs checked, having blood tests done, and signing consent forms. These tasks are necessary to ensure your safety and to provide the medical team with the information they need to proceed with the surgery.
Once in the operating room, you will be given anesthesia to ensure you are comfortable and pain-free during the procedure. The surgeon will make small incisions in your back to implant the leads, which are thin wires that deliver electrical pulses to the spinal cord. The leads will be placed in specific locations to target the areas causing your pain or other symptoms.
After the surgery, you will be taken to a recovery area where you will be monitored closely. The medical staff will check your vital signs, assess your pain level, and ensure that you are awake and alert. They may also provide you with pain medication or other medications as needed.
During the recovery period, it is important to avoid certain activities that could potentially move or displace the implanted leads. This is crucial for the success of the procedure and to prevent any complications. Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions, but generally, you should avoid bending, twisting, or lifting heavy objects for 6-8 weeks.
It is also important to follow any post-operative care instructions given by your surgeon or healthcare team. This may include keeping the incision site clean and dry, taking prescribed medications as directed, and attending any follow-up appointments.
While the hospital stay for a spinal cord stimulator surgery is typically short, lasting around 6 hours, it is important to follow post-operative instructions to ensure the success of the procedure. By avoiding certain activities and following the guidance of your healthcare team, you can optimize your recovery and potentially experience long-term pain relief.