failed cervical union

[yayamel]

I had initial cervical fusion app.6 years ago and another one 4 years ago because I was told that the first one didn't fuse even though xray after the first surgery said it was fused. Both times with cadaver bone although the second time the dr. also put in a titanium plate and screws. Now, 4 years later, I'm having constant neck pain...severe. MRI and cervical xray suspicious for nonunion again. Dr. wants to do a bone scan to find out. Is this protocol and if it is pseudoarthrosis, what is the next step? I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired!! I started smoking about 1 year ago...I'm sure this added to my problem. I would appreciate any comments and suggestions anyone has.

[yayamel]

Thamks for reply!! How is your back?

[Pam010109]

I too had lumbar fusion, Jan. 2001. Before my surgery, my dr. told me that he wouldn't operate on me unless I had stopped smoking for 6 months before the surgery. He said...and other Dr.'s have told me that smoking cuts down on the amount of oxygen that gets into your cells thus preventing healing and keeping your surgery from doing what it is intended to do.

That is all I can tell you. Hope you have better days!