Hello Everyone! Lumbar patient (L4-5, L5-S1) Rambling Intro...

[Genn]

Doc~ Yes- Ins is a nightmare!! What a tangled web!


Well, I just got home from my consult with Dr. Bitan. He was everything you said he'd be and more!

Upon arrival, I was sent upstairs for a few standing X-rays and by the time I got back down, He was reviewing ALL films/X-rays/ MRIs/ Myelograms/ CTs, etc. since early 2009 to current.

My L5-S1 shows a complete collapse in 2-3 years time of being bedridden. He said my case was rare, as he only sees that happen with failed surgeries and/or infection in the disc (usually from a discogram). At this point, Fusion on the L5-S1 disc space is my only option. It is his opinion that I have one chance to get this right. He said he has zero failed fusions to date and will be using BMP in his ALIF approach. I also have arthritis and degeneration in the facets at this level.

Leaving the L4-5 alone is a large risk, showing how my spine has rapidly degenerated in such a short time w/o much reason. He doesn't want to leave it- only to have to come and do it all over again- with no options left. At this point in the degeneration, I'm still a candidate for an AD. Due to FDA regulations, the ProDisc is my best option here. does accept my Ins, everything else will be covered!!

Re: Dr. Bitan- I have never met a NS like him! He has a no non-sense approach. He was well prepared and thorough prior and during the exam. Confident, not cocky... I felt at ease. There was "no need to try and convince" as the issues could easily be seen... (by him). I trust in him and his extensive experience. I do believe he gives an honest opinion on whether he can help or not.
Katie~ He is fantastic! Thank you soooo much! He says hello and it brought a smile to his face when he thought of you! He also just had lunch with Dr. Pimenta not too long ago

I should be really happy but, I am Nervousssssss!! Surgery date is set for mid January!

I have 1 more EMG to do, an appt with the other surgeon (I've had a previous abdominal surgery), and the pre-op testing to keep me busy, I guess.. Wow!! I'm freakin!!!! LOL


Now, I'm plagued with the question.. Was it necessary to wait this long to "see" how quickly my spine was degenerating? Or could my conditions have been visible a couple years ago? Did I have to do 3 years in bed when I could have only done one Oh well.. It is what it is.. Now, I can only hope for the best!