HELP: Desperately Need a Maverick ADR Removed

mark-perth · #1 (**permalink**) 05-12-2009, 06:36 AM

Hi Everyone,
Thanks for all the replys, they have definhately been helpful. I have plenty of Xrays and other scans from prior to the ADR that show a straight spine. The curve developed after the ADR. I have 3 Xrays after the ADR and it shows the curve getting worse around the disc with a very minor curve 4 days after the ADR. I also have a posterior stabilization device still in place. That being the Diam which I do understand is not as good as a DSS system or a Corflex but surely that would help a little. I obvoiusly would like to have the symplist and safest operation, as long as it doesnt burn any bridges if it doesnt work. So if a posterior fusion doesnt remove the options of a disc removal at a later date then to me that would be the wisest option. But that being said I dont want to have 3 or 4 major operations if it can be done in 1 and from the medical papers I have regarding ADR revisions fusion while leaving the disc in often isnt as good as removing the disc. Also listening to Mark (MMGlobal) it obviously isnt something that has been perfected and there is obviously alot of debate about the correct procceedure to correct a failed ADR as there have been possitive and negative results from all attempted ways. I have heard of too many problems with a DSS system to consider that especially as my disc is so far misplaced and feel that way would definately mean an extra operation or 2. From what ive read the best option is usually removal with a 360 fusion to fully stabilize the area. Hopefully I can find a surgeon before problems occur to other areas. Please continue to give me your thoughts as your advice so far has been exremely benificial.
Thanks,
Mark

Hucky :) · #2 (**permalink**) 05-12-2009, 10:43 AM

Hi Mark,

I'm from Sydney and I saw a guy at Westmead Private. I haven't been operated on but saw him for a consult for ADR/fusion.

If you want his name I can give it to you, I don't know if he does ADR revisions though.

There is a neuro in South Australia that has a good reputation for taking on very difficult fusion revisions, but can't think of his name, if you would like, I can ring someone who was revised by him and get back to you.

The other thought I had is to ask your neurosurgeon who HE thinks is the best for revision surgery. As someone suggested, Matthew Scott-Young has a pretty good reputation, but he is in Queensland.

If it were me in this situation, I would be trying to see the guys in Germany. They are the best of the best. It would cost a lot more than being done here, but if you can afford it, it might be the safest and best outcome for you.

Take care

Hucky

mark-perth · #3 (**permalink**) 05-12-2009, 02:51 PM

Hey Hucky,

Thanks for the reply. That would be very much appreciated if you could get the name of the neuro in SA. I have contacted at least 50 surgeons in Aus so far and none are willing to look at removing the disc. I am happy to travel anywhere to get the best treatment as a life in pain is not my idea of fun. Hopefully I can have it in Aus and I still have a few surgeons to wait for a reply from but it doesnt look great. The problem is more to do with them having not done it before and I really dont wamt to be there first. I think it would be better to have someone experienced with it so I hopefully get a good result.
I hope you have a better experience than mine. Dont let mine put you off, just understand the dangers if it doesnt work. Have you seen my scans from earlier in the post? Failures can also happen with fusion as well which is the scary thing. Good luck with your choice.

Thanks,
Mark

Hucky :) · #4 (**permalink**) 05-13-2009, 09:55 PM

Hi again,

Sorry I haven't got back to you, I can't seem to contact this lady I know who had the revision fusion surgery in SA.

I've been trolling old posts on various boards but can't find his name. Hopefully, she'll ring me soon, unless her phone number has changed

Hucky

mark-perth · #5 (**permalink**) 05-15-2009, 05:32 AM

Hi Hucky

Cheers for that, dont stress about it 2 much, whenever you find out thats fine with me. Id say I will have another few weeks before I get answers from the surgeons ive contacted anyways.

thanks,

Mark

Michelle Maree · #6 (**permalink**) 05-15-2009, 10:49 AM

Hi Mark

It is my understanding that Dr Bertagnoli in Germany has the most ADR experience in the world. Particularily dealing with difficult cases that no one else will attempt. I understand that financial and insurance issues are extremely important.
But this is your spine and you only get one and it has to last the rest of your life. It couldnt hurt at least to get an opinion from him and see what he says.
The other Mark can help you with this or you can contact Dr.B through his own website.

Go Freeo!

Michelle.

Michelle Maree · #7 (**permalink**) 05-15-2009, 11:23 AM

From what I have read Mathew Scott -Young is Australias most experienced ADR sugeon and he has performed just over 300 of them. Where as Dr Bertagnoli in Germany has performed over 3000. Its not a garantee but it sure tips the odds in your favour.

Or are you an Eagles fan?

Michelle.