New here, looking for fusion sucess rates

djscal · #1 (**permalink**) 12-19-2006, 06:50 AM

Hi Yvette,

I had a single level Charite at L5-S1 that I'm considering converting to a fusion. My facet joints were painful before the disc replacement and have gotten much worse after disc replacement. I should never have been considered as a candidate for disc replacement as a cyst was on one of my facet joints BEFORE the disc replacement. It was unfortunately missed by the doctors I saw. Those of us with painful facet joints or other contraindications to disc replacement don't have much of a choice other than fusion. I feel that one should never go ahead with a disc replacement when their are contraindications. Otherwise, you could go through the surgery, the painful recovery and not be any better. (like me)

Dan

yvette · #2 (**permalink**) 12-19-2006, 02:22 PM

How do you know the facets are the problem? My mri says something about arthiritis in those I think, or the word meant arthirits?

I sure want whatever is going to fix the problem and not end up with extras. It sometimes seems like a big guessing game. Isn't it weird, we can send space shuttles up to moon but we can't seem to figure out spine stuff?

Michelle · #3 (**permalink**) 12-19-2006, 03:33 PM

Yvette,
I have facet arthritis as well, and I wanted to say that I wouldn't let that stop you from having an ADR. ProDisc is easier on the facets because the design doesn't allow hyperextension. I am going to have a facet block soon, but despite that residual pain, I am much better than I was. Totally worth it. On the other hand, I've never heard of a fusion patient having facet problems. Problems with surrounding discs, yes, but not facets. Everything in life is a trade-off. But I'm happy with my decision. Hopefully you find the right one for you!

yvette · #4 (**permalink**) 12-20-2006, 01:28 PM

Well I think I maybe shut out of adr as an option now. I believe by looking at my xrays that my vertebrae have moved more than three mm. I am waiting for surgeon to look at my new ct and flex/ext xrays. However its probably moved 20 percent or 1/5 which probably knocks me out of being candidate. Someone called me from Charite yesterday and confirmed that it has to be les than 3 mm. Not the answer I want. I am fighting fusion in my mind here.

I know for along time it was basically that I needed adr chronic back pain. My doctor had told me to try to walk alot, and I did, I was walking miles a day, it didn't help my back pain at all. Now I have nerves impinged and bone spurs etc and my legs and feet kills me more than my back. frustrating. Oh and heres a good one, I was talking to my husband about fusion etc and he told me I should just quit thinking about it all.

Oh yeah a surgery that will affect the rest of my life for the good or the bad and I should just put it out of my mind, while I sit here in pain and can't do anything.

Michelle · #5 (**permalink**) 12-20-2006, 10:54 PM

What a huge decision-affecting your entire life! I know this is all-consuming to you right now-been there!- but all I can say is try to relax. Find out what the surgeons say. And I say surgeonS because I really think you need at least 2 to make an informed decision. You will find a patient who is thrilled with every different type of surgery out there. You will also find those who regret their decision with every breath. All you can do is look at your options, listen to your doctors, and do a lot of research. You're on the right track! Just because ADR worked for me, doesn't mean it's right for everyone. But be open minded, and see what the surgeons say. You may be surprised! Hang in there, and hope you keep coming to the forums!

dshobbies · #6 (**permalink**) 12-20-2006, 11:02 PM

Just one quick word of warning, which you may already know. When choosing any doctor for a second or... opinion, make sure they are well versed and capable of performing all your options. It seems that some doctors who can't or won't do adr's, put them down and claim you are not a good candidate when that may not be necessarily true.

Still, others who are new to adr's my be looking to put another notch in their belt. So forewarned is forearmed.

Happy holidays, Dale

yvette · #7 (**permalink**) 12-21-2006, 01:14 AM

I've actually had the opposite problem in the past, all the doctors kept telling me I am the perfect candidate for the surgery, but they don't do it. And told me not to be the guinea pig either, to wait until they have lots of practice.

Now waiting on neurosurgeons apt and do have another second opinion scheduled in jan. - Trying to relax. Thanks