My 3 mo X ray - Discs tilted all over the place

[Cindylou]

Oh, brother, what a let down Steve. I am so sorry for this unfortunate turn of events. You could probably second guess yourself to death. Is it feasible for you to make an appt. with Dr. Guyer, so you can have a frank, honest discussion about what/why everything went belly up? If that is possible, I would recommend pursuing it, if nothing else, for peace of mind. And I wouldn't go in there demanding anything, (not that you would) but rather non-defensively asking if he could help you understand his reasoning, and where he is coming from. And maybe even express how you would, indeed, welcome his advice as you move forward with this. (you never know how this may help you down the road) I am assuming the reason you don't want to go back to Germany and have Dr. Bertagnoli do the revision is because of $$ and lack of coverage, correct? I know this is probably way "Pollyanna," however, have you considered asking Dr. B if he would do your revision as a compassionate case, since he did the original surgery and it was within this calendar year? Heck, only 6 months ago, right? Not likely, but what's to lose? He can only say no. Steve, do you have an history of litigation that they may be recoiling from? And lastly, I would like to say that although many doctors likely don't peruse spine forums, I know of a few medical secretaries and support staff who do, and who could conceivably forward glaring information to the doc. I don't want to make you paranoid, because I still believe that anything you said or wrote seemed very benign, in my humble opinion. That's it. Not much help, I know, Steve, but I just wanted to convey to you my empathy and that things do happen for a reason (easier said than done) and that you will get this behind you. Hang in there.

[steve55]

Well, if they wont see me, its unlikely I can get my way in just to talk about why they wont see me. And no, I dont have any litigation history whatsoever. Ive looked up this other doctor's credentials that Dr B is now referring me to and his ADR experience doesnt look too impressive. I think Id rather have Dr Regan do my surgury as originally planned. I was hoping that Dr B might be right in that my neck may adjust and heal itself but thelast 3 days Ive had consistent extreme throbbing pain on the right side of my back just to the right side of C6/7. So, if it doesnt clear up soon, I will need to for sure have this surgury. Its a pretty extreme pain (level 9) but its muscular/skeletal type pain, not the nerve type pain. Im getting a CT scan and new x rays this week for Dr B to review, and Ill also set up with Dr regan to give me his 2nd opinion also. But like I said, if this horrendous pain doesnt subside soon, Ill have to just move forward with surgury w/ Dr Regan.

[Katie]

Dear Lord Steve, I feel sick for you. I can't believe they play with people's lives like this. Actually, I do believe it, as they are doing similar stuff with me at the appeal level.

I've often been worried that someone is reading these posts and started to watch every thing I said, but these forums are the only place to really talk to people who understand. So I tell my tales and hope for the best.

I wish I had some words of wisdom to offer, but all I can do is wish you well, and tell you that I understand your frustration. This system sucks. I wish they taught compassion and ethics in medical school as well as how to cut.

[JKDE302]

After all the nice things you say about Dr B you would think he would just fix this problem for you..I hope after he looks at the CT scan and new x rays he will do the right thing...

[Cindylou]

I'm sorry Steve. Yeah, I hear you. You definitely don't want someone with less than impressive credentials to touch your neck! I don't have any pearls of wisdom either, except just wishing you resolution and pain relief as quickly as possible.

[dshobbies]

What a snooty bunch of snivelling quimbies. Some doctors just act like three year olds and I suppose as long as others are willing to grovel at their feet, they can get away with it.

I have never heard of all this psychological testing just to have a very necessary back surgery. It would seem to me that they're looking to skew the results of their successes by hand picking their patients instead of simply doing the best job possible. I guess that's one way to build a reputation!

Doesn't matter - their refusal to see you is unfortunate and I'm sorry. I'm sure Dr. R will do a fantastic job for you. Perhaps your aunt will treat you like a little puppy and you won't want to return home

I know you're angry but shake it off and just get on with whatever comes next. Easier said than done perhaps but screw it, TBI isn't worth your aggravation anymore.

Please keep us posted - hey - why don't you sell your story to the soaps only don't change the names to protect the innocent. Good luck Steve,

Dale

[steve55]

Well, I'm very pleased with dr b's efforts thus far. Dr Regan's deal is simply tough to beat, I guess cause insurance is covering the fusion part. Even if dr b was able to go from $18k to $10k, I still feel I need a local doctor to follow up with in case problems develop. Also, I've since learned that radiology facilities require a us based prescription for x rays and mri's etc. Dr Regan is well qualified and it's easier to go see him if post op issues occur.


Thanks for the well wishes everyone.