Tpm Update

[tpm]

Hello all
Unfortunately my neck woes are resulting in another surgery (I think). I paid a visit to my Neurosurgeon back on Oct. 10th where we went over my latest MRI and ex-rays. At this point he placed me out of work pending further testing. Yesterday I had a cervical discogram (my 2nd, had one in Jan. '07) The results show a moderate bulging disc just above my previous surgery of my C5-7 fusion. This disc tested positive during testing and reproduced my pain levels. My surgeon also said my C3-4 was very getting bad as well but didn't produce any pain at testing yesterday. I now wait for my neuro appt. on Dec. 5th. Maybe this will finally relief me of my pain, at least I'm hoping so.
I'll keep you posted
Be well

[Bad Boy Bad Boy]

Is the surgeon talking about a fusion of level from C3 to T1? Which would then be a 6 level fusion. For as you posted the levels, it would seem fessible to perform the 6 level fusion now, and not have to re-do anymore at another time.

[Still in Limbo]

Hi Tpm!! I Hope also that this Helps!! Please don't be such a Stranger, and Keep Us Informed!!

[tpm]

Bad Boy
Thanks for posting. When I had my first surgery the doctor used titanium plating with predrilled holes so if needed the plating can just continue. In other words the original fusion does not have to come out, he simply adds to it. When finished I think it will be a C4 through 7 fusion (unless he feels he needs to do the C3-4). Not to confuse myself but right now I have a double fusion and either one additional disc or maybe 2 discs will be fused.

Limbo
Hello and thanks. I will try to keep you updated, my next step is seeing the surgeon on Dec 5th. Unfortunately that will put surgery right around Christmas.
Would you know if my range of motion will be any worse with an additional fusion? I really want to get back in the truck by April, May the latest. If it's possible that is.

Be Well

[Bad Boy Bad Boy]

TPM, just so you know, as what I seen in you main thread, was C3 & 4 was getting bad, and C5 & 7 were fused. The proper main surgical goal would then be stabization of the cervical spine so this doesn't have to be re-done again in life. That type surgery is what I had the third time after the 3 level revision, as I had to wait for the 6 level fusion to be performed. The plate and screws would then be removed from the front & and get stitched up. Your then turned over, and the rear of the neck is opened up, the fusion goal would be C3 to T1 or even sometimes T2 to stabalize the spine and the neck from further damage. It will then have 2 rods installed, one on each side with screws holding them in place. But, first, if I were you, please talk this over with the surgeon, and ask for the best, and the most proper Fusion Revision they have to offer you. You will still be able to turn your head, look up some, and look down some. You just may not get that last sip out of a pop can though. That I do know. I still can drive, but am very careful backing up, but that's where my CDL license proves you know how to use those side mirrors, LOL. A back up beeper should then be installed on your personel cars then also. If I am correct some States would require the Back Up Beeper. Once healed, you then should demand a Computer Operated Full FCE be done, to show what type work, and work field you then would fit into. For I would doubt you will return to your present work. Best to prepare now, and not later. Once it's said on the type fusion you should have, you may also consider appling for SSDI. I know this all stinks, and you know I will only tell you the way it might go is all. Preperation is only the best for anyone.

[capricorn]

Hi tpm....nice to see you. Sorry you will need another surgery but if it eases your pain then I wil pray for success. It's always nice to see you. I am of no help here since I'm not a spine surgery person. My spinal injuries are minimal compared to what so many have experienced. Keep us posted


CAP

[tpm]

Thanks Cap and thanks Bad Boy
Bad Boy I must admit you are making me nervous but I do appreciate you telling me the way it may be. I will choose to look positive right now but I know the road I hope to be taking may change. My next appointment with my Neuro can't come fast enough.
Thanks to all and Be Well

[tpm]

Hello again

I just received my CT scan results from my Discogram last week. In addition to re-creating the pain in my C4-5 disc the report also states I have mild retrolisthesis at C4-C5. A quick read tells me this isn't too good. Can anyone step in and let me know if it is anything to worry about
Do not see my surgeon till Dec 5th where I'm pretty sure he will want to do another surgery

Thanks and Be well

[Bad Boy Bad Boy]

Retrolisthesis; An alingment concern...

One bone slips out of alignment and moves backwards, causing a retrolisthesis.

I wouldn't worry, for you have had a good idea of what is coming. And with surgey, it will get realigned.

Sadly enough though, these things do happen. I say your in good hands as you have been watched well.

[tpm]

Bad Boy would this be corrected with another ACDF or would he need to go in from the back? Just what can I expect?

Thanks and Be Well

Dec 5th can't get here fast enough (Doc appt.)