dislocated jaw and c4-c7 fusion

[toby588]

Hi All
Had a car accident a few months ago, and will be having c4-c7 fusion with plate and grafts in about 10 days (because of anterolisthesis (vertebrae separation and spinal chord impingement).  My jaw was also dislocated and have been on liquids and blended foods since. Can't chew or open my mouth more than 1/2 inch at most.  Jaw MD won't do surgery till at least 6 months after neck surgery. I'm concerned about the tube they put in your mouth during neck surgery, and the double complication after surgery.
Does anyone have any experience or  info regarding this?
Wishing everyone increasing good health and well being!

[kay290]

I hope you have an excellant spinal surgeon. If he/she is doing a graft from your thigh that is outdated and can also cause more complications. You need to really discuss this with your surgeon. How often has he seen long term swallowing issues after surgery and is it a greater possiblility due to your jaw problems?

[Dr. A. Srivastava]

Hi, Thank you for question. Main possibility is of TMJ disorder that can arise due to excessive teeth grinding habits, dental problems, misalignment of the teeth and trauma to the jaws and patient may experience headache, facial pain, ear pain, dizziness and nausea. However, in TMJ disorder, MRI is a useful investigation tool to diagnose the condition and your normal MRI report suggests it is a less likely cause in your case. I would recommend you to see a neurologist who can evaluate the details of your case and could better determine the insight of your situation. Additionally, possibilities of trigeminal neuralgia could also be evaluated. Hope this helps. Take Care & Regards.