Lumbar Disk Replacement Failures: Review of 29 Patients and Rationale for Revision

[Justin]

The fact is, they have to test it on someone, and many of us are the test subjects. It comes down to deciding what is the best technology, for our bodies, at the time when we need surgical intervention now and not in 5-10 years. I am personally, in a clinical trial for the Activ L and am happy to have received ADR and thrilled that my data will help others determine the safety and effectiveness of this device. I relied heavily on clinical trial data in making my decision and am glad that those before me were in the trials that I studied.

Kathy, very well said. Sometimes things are just out of our hands and we just have to "roll with the punches"--make sure to do your research, get multiple surgical opinions, utilize diagnostics at your treating physicians disposal, become a well-informed Spine Patient, be proactive in your care, and ultimately be confident in your decision.

[Cindylou]

Well, I guess I must confess that when I went under the knife for my 3 lumbar adr's, I wasn't exactly having altruistic motives. By a long shot. I was desperate for pain relief, having suffered for 6 years after my bicycle accident, before I took the plunge. I researched and studied data, but because I needed 3 levels done, it upped the anti. There was no way I was going to lay down and have a 3 level fusion. Some of us, Keano , are of a certain age in life that we can't "wait around for 5 more years," or we wouldn't qualify at all due to Medicare age restrictions.

[Keano16]

Of course, I understand you fully.

Sorry if you mis-interpreted my statement.

[KBear]

Of course, I understand you fully.

Sorry if you mis-interpreted my statement.

No, don't worry about it, that's what this forum is about to support all people, regardless of their spinal choices, opinions, etc. We are all about discussion and you brought up a very good point. If people are able to wait, and a new promising technology is on the horizon, then I would definitely say wait. On the other hand, if you can't wait, then you got to pick what is best at the time. No hard feelings, we love a great discussion!

[Justin]

No, don't worry about it, that's what this forum is about to support all people, regardless of their spinal choices, opinions, etc. We are all about discussion and you brought up a very good point. If people are able to wait, and a new promising technology is on the horizon, then I would definitely say wait. On the other hand, if you can't wait, then you got to pick what is best at the time. No hard feelings, we love a great discussion!

No worries, Keano.

[Cindylou]

Absolutely Keano. We are all about information, discussion, different perspectives, etc. I just needed to bring up my point too. Of course, the fact that I went to Germany freed me up from any FDA limitations stateside. It also freed me up from my savings account! Welcome aboard.

[Fuzzy]

I knew it was a gamble on a new procedure and I told my gp in 03 that I was willing to be that guinea pig as someone has to do it. I waited 4 more years after that until it got really bad. Today I am so glad I had the ADR implanted ( and the fusion to go with it) and wish I would have done it ealier as it turned back the clock on my lower spine for a decade at least. But one never knows. I was willing to take a chance on the quality of my life. The only problem I had is that the lowerback ADR surgery exposed the fact that my spine is a piece of crap and needs to be completely replaced as there are more problems that were clear as glass after that surgery were befoe it was not so clear were all the crap was coming from. My ADR seems to be working so well that it makes up for the fusion below it and my back feels better then it has for a long time. Yes I still do get pain but there are times with no pain

Oh, edit, the article is an interesting read as it seems to sugest that a carefully planned revision has a good chance of improvement (sucess?). Also there are surgeons out there that are well versed im problem cases.

[Cindylou]

Fuzzy, it's always good....no, make that great to hear of someone such as yourself that has seen much improvement from their adr surgery. And I am happy for you in particular that you are able to enjoy times with no pain. That's the goal, after all, no? Here's to continued pain free days for you!

[Fuzzy]

Yesterday I stepped of a 2 inch step (sidewalk) without realizing it and the jolt caused instant lowback pain and the cervical issues were up with an instant headache to go with it. That made my day. Today the headache is gone but its a reminder to be very carfull everyday.

[New-disc]

Thanks Keano. After extensive research on artificial disc replacement surgery, it was still a difficult decision to move forward with a 2-level replacement at 23 years old in 2003. I took one for the team.

I wish you the very best, my friend.

Justin!!!

Thank you... people of the future will follow and learn from all of our ADR data.

Proud to know you , and many other ADR patients.

Todd