Numb limbs

[charou]

My father has been suffering from the last 8 months with numbness in limbs which simetimes goes up to his waist.  He had an MRI done and has been told that due to the bones in his neck coming closer than normal, some nerves along the spine are constricted leading to this numbness.  He has also been asked to get a surgery done ASAP where the neuro surgeon would pull the bones apart to release the constriced nerves.  I would like to know if this surgery can be avoided or not.  Second, whether this is a major surgery and the chances of success in a surgery of this sort including chances of the problem surfacing again.  Also, would be grateful if you could let me know the dangers, if any, associated with this surgery.

Thanks,

[sllowe]

You are very welcome, and I'm happy to hear that he got a 2nd opinion, it's very important.  

Wishing him all the best for this surgery, and know we are here for you.

Keep us posted,
Shelly

[charou]

Hi Shelly,

Thanks a lot for your reply.  It feels really nice to be a part of this caring community.  My dad has taken a second opinion as well and has been advised surgery yet again.  The doc said it is a routine surgery and would take him at the most 3-5 days in the hospital.  I guess it is imminent and hope he comes out absolutely fine :-)

Thanks a ton,
Charou

[sllowe]

Hi Charou,

I'm sorry your father is suffering like this.  I'm not a Dr. and cannot advise authoritatively on what one should or should not do in a situation like this, but I will give you my opinion based on my knowledge.  

My knowledge in this is limited, but believe that if your father has had numbness in his limbs for 8 months and the neurosurgeon says he should be operated on right away to relieve the compressed nerves, then there is a problem.  They don't want the nerves to become so damaged from this compression/constriction that the damage to them is irreversible.  

There are dangers in all operations, even those that are performed on a routine basis.  There are no guarantees, however, you've got to try hard to have some faith.  It will be hard since you sound worried.  Can you go to his appointment with him? So, you can ask the Drs some questions?

Thanks for coming our way, I hope we can help you with your thoughts,
Hang in there best you can,
Shelly