Back & spinal fussion

[Kathy1950]

Hello,  I have disc fussion of cervical 6/7 plus lower back problems, osteo of the spine I cannot stand for long or sit I have found i get vey agitated very quickly which as always been the oporsit to my charachter. I have had a full mri scan also checked for carpel tunnel. The surgeon told me  he cannot operate due to he could paralize me from the neck down, I was also informed my spine is 10 years advanced for my age which i'm 57yrs. I am suffering with terriable pain numbness to the hands at times, dropsy,  i have also found my memory suffers from time to time, this is also affecting my bladder which at times i am dribbling, the surgeon told me in a nice way i'm knackered and to go away and enjoy my life as best i can before i land in a wheelchair. Can you tell me please what am I facing  as no one seems to tell me what other symptons i will get if I know this then I will face up to this and not worry so much.  

[Kathy1950]

Thank you for replying please would you read joface comment i sent

[Kathy1950]

Thank you for your reply I did see my gp who agreed with findings of the surgeon, I am in constant pain which my GP is very good I have had to accept a lot but I am now suffering with my leg at times is going numb but not totally the only way I can explain it is when you have sat on your leg  and the feeling goes all funny is this also part of the condition this can last for a few hours at a time. Ive not handed the towel in but I know I have to realalistic,  i am a fighter but at times it drains you of everything at times.

[alinpain]

i agree with bringing all your info to another nerosurgen,i have had 5 operations on my back resulting in metal ln my neck and lower back,im walking again with no pain which is a blessing in it self.you need to find a GOOD surgen...........
god bless al

[Joface]

I don't know who you have been seeing, but I would ask the surgeon for the operative report from your cervical fusion (you will have to sign a release to get it, but definitely get it!).  Then I would get a copy of your full MRI with the report dictated by the radiologist and take all of these to a different neurosurgeon for a second opinion on what is wrong. If there is nothing they can do, at least you need an understandable explanation as to what your options are, if any. If you don't want to do that, then write down your specific questions, make another appt. with your surgeon and take someone along with you to meet with him/her.  An extra set of ears can be helpful at such times.  Good luck!  Jo