Choosing ADR or fusion

[racergaldar]

Thanks for all your comparison info. I've started the same thing, but waiting for diagnostic testing approval through WC.

I was told yesterday by my dr. office that if I get a fusion and if I need the disc replacement later (for example fusion failed), that I would not be able to get the ADR at the same level.


BTW: Aetna, Kaiser Permanente and CIGNA cover the procedure, as well as Blue Cross Blue Shield plans in AR, NJ and MT.

[mmglobal]

Racer, welcome to the forum. Thanks for your reply on KL's work com thread. Having someone with your HR knowledge here will be great.

Regarding your post (above). If one would be a candidate for ADR in the future at the operated level... then they must be a candidate for ADR now. I agree that it is safe to assume that attempting fusion will certainly burn many bridges for less invasive and less severe procedures. If a less invasive or less severe procedure is in play... that should be entertained before fusion.

Mark

[racergaldar]

Mark; thanks for the welcome.

My surgeon gave me 2 brochures: 1) fusion and 2) ADR. Without a discography, we can't tell whether I'm a candidate for ADR. Based on MRI, xrays and MRI, I could be, but the MRI doesn't give enough info to determine that. I just found out that the discography has been denied (WC) so now I'm starting that battle.

The PA tried to convince me that fusion wasn't going to limit my flexibility, but she didn't succeed. Since the dr. gave me info on those two options, then I'm assuming I may be a candidate for ADR. My best friend had fusion and everytime I hear him tell me what he can't do, the more I'm convinced that ADR is the best choice for my lifestyle. I'm too active of a person to get fused and I'm afraid of the future risks and limitations. I have faith in new technology and willing to accept the risks for ADR. After all, I use to race mortorcyles against a bunch of guys going 160mph into a turn, ADR is nothing compared to that!