I’m trying not to overly obsess about my upcoming spinal fusion surgery. But I do want to be prepared for any possibility afterwards. The surgeon’s nurse gave me a list of potential problems that could develop like heart attack, blood clot, or poor wound healing. They assured me that these are uncommon and not to worry. But are there other possible (more serious) complications that I should watch for?

As with all major surgical procedures, complications can occur. The nurse has prepared you for some of the most common complications following fusion. Other less common adverse responses can include a reaction to the anesthesia or other drugs, infection (skin or deep), and nerve damage to the voice box with anterior (from the front of the spine) cervical spine fusion.

Early recognition of these problems is essential in getting the right treatment. If you notice any odd or newly forming signs or symptoms, let your nurse and/or doctor know right away. Difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, increased pain (or new location of pain), fever, and red streaks on the skin might be some early signs and symptoms to be aware of.

If you are having a bone graft and the bone is being taken from the top of your pelvis, there can be some problems at the donor site with soreness, infection, or weakness. Sometimes the bones do not fuse as planned. This is called a nonunion or pseudarthrosis. The term pseudarthrosis means false joint. Movement at the fusion site is an indication of nonunion and a failed fusion. This may require a second (revision) surgery.

Not all patients get complete pain relief with spinal fusion. As with any surgery, you should expect some pain afterward. If the pain continues or becomes unbearable, talk to your surgeon. There may be a simple treatment that can help control your pain early on and keep it from becoming a chronic problem.