Another Surgery?

[JMRIZZ]

Hi Everyone.  I have been gone for a while trying to recuperate from a three level fusion at C5-6,C6-7, and C7-T1 in Aug of 2007.  I felt great for about 3 weeks, then I had some recurrence of pain.  The doctor reassured be that it was part of the healing process and it would get better.  I was treating with Aleve and I could tolerate the discomfort. Well, I made it through the holidays but then I started having increased pain in my neck, shoulders and terrible headaches.  I am unable to do anything without causing increased pain.  I returned to the Neurosurgeon and was advised to take anti-inflammatories and start PT with traction.  Ouch!  They tried me out at the lowest setting of 8 pounds and this only made it significantly worse.  After two tries of this, we tried other exercise and movements.  This too increased my discomfort and PT was discontinued.  I am now waiting for the insurance to approve and MRI so we can see what is going on.  The neurosurgeon had stated that he thought my symptoms were from the level above, but we did not want to talk about that because that would be bad.  Well, the therapist thinks there is definitely something going on with the level above so now I am worried.  If I have already had a fusion on three levels and I am only six months out from my surgery with more problems, what will my future hold?  Has anyone else had to have surgery on additional levels so soon?  Does this mean another fusion?  What can I expect if I have to have another surgery?  Is it more painful?  Does it take longer to heal?  I am just anxious.  Any help would be great.  Thank you. Jo Ann

[JMRIZZ]

Well, I wanted to let you all know what I have learned in the past month or so.  I had another set of xrays and finally an MRI.  The good news is that there is nothing wrong with the level above my cervical fusion.  The bad news is that it is caused by the additional movement the upper neck is forced to perform.  I am now taking Vicodin 3-4 times a day with minimal relief, but I do not want to become a zombie.  These make me tired as it is.  I can do nothing without increasing my pain in the neck and shoulders and terrible headaches.  I discussed with my  neurosurgeon my options and I am not happy with what I have heard.  We are trying to get a facet joint injection approved my the insurance company to see if that would help relieve some pain.  But when I cornered the doctor on what the next option would be if they did not work, he simply said there was nothing more surgically he could offer.  Since I already failed PT and the meds do not help much, I would just be stuck with my constant pain.  I feel so lazy because I can't do anything and if I try, I am down and out for days with the increased pain.  When I mentioned to the doctor that I might as well file for disability, his only response was, "Go Ahead.  I will support your claim."  To me, this was the most disheartening thing I have ever heard.  I was waiting for him to say that I was still going to heal and all would be well, but I did not get that.  If I should apply for social security benefits, how successful would I be.  Can you get disability from a three level cervical fusion if it has been unsuccessful?  My kids and husband have been doing all the housework and I am unable to do much at all.  Should I try and see what happens?  I have not done anything since Aug. 2007.  Your input would be great on the success (or lack of) facet joint injections and SS disability claims.  Thanks. Jo Ann

[JMRIZZ]

Thank you aussie. Once I get the MRI I am sure something will get done one way or the other.  I will keep you all informed, but I am worried.

[cat9841]

omg, your scaring me. I just had a fusion L4-L5. I don't really think I can ever do this again, what an ordeal, and I am no stranger to surgeries, I had both knees replaced, this has been very hard. you mean it can come back???  PT, what a joke...what can we do to get healthy and not need surgery???
CAT

[aussie08]

Boy, do I know what you're going through.  Two years ago I had level fusion C6-7.  Two months ago I had C5-6.  My problem is that I have very poor posture that brings all this on.  I did have a second fusion.  It WAS NOT more painfull, and I was back on my feet alot quicker with the second surgery.  I am having problems with another level and will be going to the doc next month.  If your doc won't talk about your condition, you need to find a new one.  Nobody likes surgery, but if it's the only thing that will correct your problem go for it.  Anti-flammatories and PT didn't work for me either.  Good luck