I totally agree that ADR is the way to go (even at L5/S1), and I was very happy when Dr. Bertagnoli told me two level ADR instead of a hybrid. I have a partially lumbarized S1 (which the Germans are calling L6), and I thought there might be a possibility that they might want a fusion there, to account for possible extra movement because of the transitional anatomy.
But like you, I know that fusion is much harder to recover from, and lots of people have problems with the hardware. I want to avoid fusion if at all possible. Which is why I am going all the way to Germany, and spending my own money to have ADR.
I think you are wise to fight to have ADR. I really hope you are able to get insurance to pay. Did they pay for your first surgery?
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Cathy
46 years old. 12-15 years of intermittent pain, 2 years with constant pain.
DDD, L4-5 and L5-S1, pain confirmed by discogram.
PT, ESI's, Facet injection and block, Acupuncture - all no help.
2-level (Prodisc-L) ADR surgery with Dr. Bertagnoli, May 26, 2009.
Currently taking Opana-ER (tapering off) and oxycodone
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