I may be away for a bit

[redstatebluegirl]

Not that it matters that much, I haven't been here that long but. I got a call from my doctor today saying I may need another spinal surgery. I had a fusion about 4 years ago and now am experiencing serious pain that appears to be above the fusion. I REALLY do not want another surgery, it was brutal on me and the finances....but if it gives me some bit of normal function I'll go through it again.

Think of me tonight when I break the news to my husband....he won't take this well I can be certain...

[nadinbrzezinski]

1. You take care of yourself

[NYC_SKP]

2. Good luck and good vibes....

...to you both.

[quinnox]

3. good luck to you and we look forward to your successful outcome

[femmocrat]

4. Best wishes, redstatebluegirl.

Hoping your surgery and recovery go smoothly and you are back soon.

[H2O Man]

5. Take care of yourself.

I would definitely get a second opinion. As you know, our backs can be compared to a chain, where some links wear out. A fusion is like putting a new link or two in: that immediately increases the wear-n-tear on the links just above and below the fusion. Sometimes, a fusion is combined with a cage, to reduce the damage.

Fusions are only 20% successful in terms of meaningful improvements; they are primarily to stabalize and reduce the pace of further damage.

Two fusions -- one following the other -- will result in a marked decrease in mobility. It might also raise questions about how good a job the surgeon did on the first, and the reasons that a second is being suggested.

Take your time in deciding this.

[JI7]

6. that sucks,hopefully whatever you need done

ends up making things much easier for you

[malaise]

7. All the best

One of my very good friends had spinal surgery last week Monday.
He has to rest big time until September but he's already in less pain.
You'll be fine.

[Glimmer of Hope]

8. Sorry! I had a fusion too and it seems to lead to other problems.

[okaawhatever]

9. Best wishes. I hope it will end the pain and give you a better life. Hugs in cyberspace.. nt

[Savannahmann]

10. I can think of nothing to say

Except an old Egyptian blessing.

http://memorable-quotes.com/ancient+egyptian+blessing,a3781.html

[TeeYiYi]

12. Here's the blessing...

...for those that don't want to click on the link:

” Ancient Egyptian Blessing -
- God be between you and harm in all the
empty places where you must walk.”

TYY

[WillyT]

11. All The Best

[LeftInTX]

14. I'm sorry. Please seek second opinion

About 10 years ago, they recommended a fusion after an unsuccessful disc surgery. Over a period of several years, and lots of physical therapy, my pain got better on it's own. I think the nerves just kind of calmed down as opposed to any real healing. My spine is actually in worse shape with stenosis and osteoporosis. I also get epidural steroids about 3 times a year.

However, I understand that the segments adjacent to the fusion are not as stable as they were before the fusion.

Keep us updated.

[DesertFlower]

15. sending positive thoughts. nt

[CokeMachine]

16. Good Luck and Best Wishes!! nt

[Safetykitten]

17. Good thoughts to you.

[Samantha]

18. In an effort to be helpful may I ask

if you got a second opinion on this? I believe that spinal surgeries is one of the 4 categories that was reported to be often overdiagnosed. I have not read many of your posts that I am thinking you probably have posted details that I am not aware of, but I wanted to mention this to you since I heard this reported today on the news.

Sam

[avaistheone1]

19. Sending you positive wishes.

And prayers too.

[redstatebluegirl]

20. Had surgery

Home now getting better, less pain...