triple c-spine fusion

[dp10]

I have been told by 2 physions that a triple c-spine fusion is a proceedure that fails mor time than it works. I need advice as to what the proceedure consist of and what questions should I be asking.

[dp10]

please read profile as to get mri report. thanks for response

[kittyluv1]

Welcome to the Back and Neck Community.  Members are here to assist individuals experiencing symptoms related to possible abnormal conditions of the spine.  Advice given is non-professional and is primarily based on personal experiences.

Were these physicians neurosurgeons?  It seems unlikely that a neurosurgeon (who specializes in dealing with conditions of the spine requiring fusion) would quote a failure rate to you.  These specialists would evaluate the clinical findings seen on MRI, correlate them to your subjective complaints (pain, radiation of pain to the extremities, numbness and tingling etc) and make the appropriate recommendations.
Without seeing the findings on your MRI and not knowing the symptoms you are currently experiencing, it is difficult to determine if you are a good candidate for fusion surgery, whether it is needed at three levels and/or the extent of nerve involvement that would necessitate surgical intervention.
If you have a copy of the MRI report, please post the findings and I might be able to assist you further. Also provide your current symptoms to see how they might correspond to the clinical findings.
Fusion is a complicated procedure and is not done without definitive diagnosis of nerve involvement or severe disc degeneration.  The longer the nerves are compressed, the greater the risk of the nerves not recovering fully or permanent damage that can not be repaired even with surgical intervention.
I had an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion C4-C7 with cadaver bone and titanium plating done four weeks ago.  My surgery was a complete success and I am doing very well in my recovery.  That does not mean everyone will have the same response.
Deciding on surgery is a very personal decision and should be determined based on the severity of the clinical findings, your subjective complaints and how your lifestyle has been altered secondary to those complaints.  You need to consider the potential risks of not doing surgery versus the possible complications.
If possible, obtain a consult with a board certified neurosurgeon to review your case and make appropriate recommendations regarding further treatment.
Post again with an update and with any additional questions/concerns you may have.
Best wishes -----