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Will I need Another Spinal Fusion?

I had c5 c6 fusion in january of 2006.  I was in a great deal of pain - the only relief i had was when i was laying down.  the fusion brought immediate relief.  back in October 2007 I had a flare up and went to the Neurosurgeon who told me that c7 was norw bulging and that if i wanted another fusion, he would have to re-fuse c5c6.  i chose to continue w physical therapy which benefitted me greatly.  Since this past Saturday I have been having symptoms like the ones that I had which made me seek the fusion.  I feel like i have a knife in my upper back, my upper arm, forearm, wrist, hand and fingers on the right side are killing me.   i can barely lead my normal life as i have been experiencing some crippling symptoms.  i have an appt. w the neurosurgeon again in a few days but i am scared.  is another spinal fusion my only option?  i am in too much pain to even try physical therapy.  
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Avatar universal
Thank you for your reply.   I didnt't know what the chances were - like I said - I neglected to ask the neurosurgeon a lot of questions.  I can't wait to have this done so I can go on pain free again.  
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Avatar universal
the more levels fused the more pressure on surrounding discs...but more support is gained..though there is less mobility...I had c5,6,7  3 months ago..so far so good...the chance of the next disc failing are 2.9% per year for 10 years..according to a general study
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Avatar universal
I have a spinal fusion scheduled for my c6-c7 area.  Does a fusion make the surrounding discs more susceptible to herniation?  I forgot to ask my neurosurgeon some questions - does anyone know if the same incision site is used?  the same hip for a donor bone?  any answers are greatly appreciated!
Beth
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Avatar universal
Unfortunately, when you have a fusion, the risk of further herniation on the levels above and below are greatly increased.  I had a three level fusion and I am told that the risk is high for additional surgery in the future.
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Avatar universal
Thanks for the reply.  I did some websurfing last night and saw that there are other options such as medications and physical therapy.  I am at a disadvantage for medications somewhat since I take coumadin.  I just cant believe that I had the fusion done only to have the next disc down herniate.  Is this something I need to consider if I decide to go w another fusion?  Do i have to expect that the next one down will go out of whack?
Helpful - 0
454186 tn?1388974968
Hi,sorry to know it,Clinically ,if symptom constant,perhaps another spinal fusion should be done.don't rush to surgery,give enough time for your conservative healing.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patients education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Zak Han
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