My surgeon has approved me for surgery to replace a disc at the L45 level. I’m planning to work right up until the day of surgery. My wife is concerned that I should take a break from work and rest before the operation. Does it matter either way?

It might. Being rested before major surgery isn’t a bad idea. But it may depend on the type of work you do and whether it is physical and/or emotionally stressful. A little bit of stress can be beneficial. But too much stress puts a strain on the immune system (and other systems).

Extended periods of time off work before having a total disc replacement has been shown to be harmful. Patients who are off work on sick leave or disability tend to have worse outcomes after disc replacement compared to those who are still working when the surgery is done.

You may want to ask your surgeon this question. There are other factors that he or she will take into consideration such as general health, lab values, and vital signs.