Am I making the correct choice?

[jsewell]

Richard regarding my movement , it is not as limited as i expected from being all fused. My neck is probably the most limited. It is unfortunately in a forward position and kyphotic. It kind of brings my whole back out of alignment. I also an dealing with drop foot a complication of having my L4 and L5 very inflammed. I am having surgery to fix it at the end of June. I am very excited about that. If i try to move my torso or trunk area to the left and right i get only a little motion. Legs are still weak but they do not affect walking at all. I used to be a mountain trail runner and had to switch to hiking. But i have in the past been able to hike as normal. I have a lung deficiency problem which is keeping me from any intense exercise, but i am starting to make myself get back into some serious cardio starting tomorrow. I only have 50% lung function left do to a surgical accident when removing the disc at T 7-8. The nerve that controls the diaphragm muscle was damaged.
Ask any more questions that you like
JUdy

[henry4956]

Rich, see my 'PM' and let's talk.

[henry4956]

I will not (because I am a layman) try to tell you what you should do, but I do agree that not getting the perspective of a surgeon who does both adr's and fusions and know when fusions are appropriate and when adr's are appropriate is quite logical. That's why I believe Dr Zeegers opinion (if you can spare about 700 euros) can be so valuable for your sanity. It's never too late until they stick that needle in you that puts you to sleep before the surgery. You have a short amount of time if you seriously want an alternative opinion. If you are as unsure as you sound, you might consider delaying until you can compare what may be 2 very different opinions. I say you have 1 chance to get it right. Don't be hasty and if you can don't let money decide for you. I knew I might get a double fusion (but that would have occurred only if my bone density was not up to snuff) fortunately Dr Zeegers saved my spine with a double adr. He performs 'Hybrid' surgeries that are usually just as effective as double adrs at L4-S1. It would not surprise me if a 'Hybrid' could possibly be a solution for you. I'll go no further here because it's all conjecture. Take a deep breath.

[henry4956]

by the way - the 700 euros is a average cost of his very detailed diagnosis. IMO it's well worth the money even if you go another way

[Tim]

Hi Richard
I definitely agree with everyone thats said see someone who can offer both options - fusion and ADR.
Fusion at 5/S1 and ADR at 4/5 might well provide the cushion to stop the 2 levels above deteriorating further.
Where are you in the UK? There are good surgeons in the UK who can offer both options but possibly not in your location. Are you limited to NHS or could you go private? See a couple more surgeons privately to get opinions - you don't have to proceed to surgery and can always switch back to NHS..
If you need help with surgeons i might be able to help.. Try visiting the UK ADR site where you'll find details of UK doctors..
Wishing you all the best
Tim

[Richard Tulip]

Thanks to everyone for all the info, its been a big help, I have put off my surgery and have an appointment with my surgeon on Thursday to discuss options moving forward.

Mark, ive sent you my email

Henry, ive PM'd you