needing 4-levels repaired c3-c7

[deemzee]

Hi all,

I'm 51 and recently discovered I've got a whole host of degenerative problems from c3-c7 with kyphosis slowly brought on from a fall at age 12 (although not every doctor agrees with how my degeneration began). I'm told my problem is less an issue of pain as much as it is neurological, given the multi-level cord compression. My pain level as of now is quite low and consists mainly of sensations in my left and right arms, hands, fingers and yet, I'm told I'm in great danger of quadraplegia because of the threat to my spinal cord. I've had numerous opinions from US doctors, all of which involve some form of fusion c3-c7, a four-level fusion, which was devastating news. I can't imagine doing that-- the severe ROM limitations, major concerns for adjacent discs, etc etc and so I'm here looking for advice. Has anyone out there had to deal with kyphosis? Has anyone had their kyphosis corrected with multi-level ADR or an ADR/fusion hybrid? I'd be very curious to hear of your experiences. And thanks so much Justin for this site.

[Justin]

Hi all,

I'm 51 and recently discovered I've got a whole host of degenerative problems from c3-c7 with kyphosis slowly brought on from a fall at age 12 (although not every doctor agrees with how my degeneration began). I'm told my problem is less an issue of pain as much as it is neurological, given the multi-level cord compression. My pain level as of now is quite low and consists mainly of sensations in my left and right arms, hands, fingers and yet, I'm told I'm in great danger of quadraplegia because of the threat to my spinal cord. I've had numerous opinions from US doctors, all of which involve some form of fusion c3-c7, a four-level fusion, which was devastating news. I can't imagine doing that-- the severe ROM limitations, major concerns for adjacent discs, etc etc and so I'm here looking for advice. Has anyone out there had to deal with kyphosis? Has anyone had their kyphosis corrected with multi-level ADR or an ADR/fusion hybrid? I'd be very curious to hear of your experiences. And thanks so much Justin for this site.

Hi deemzee,

Welcome to the Spine Patient Society.

Thank you for your kind words about the Society. I know Dr. Bertagnoli has done many hybrid / artificial disc cervical cases. There's debate about how many levels are "too" many in terms of artificial disc replacement. Also, even though you are young, you have to factor in other degenerative changes that have occurred in your spine (particularly the posterior elements --> facet joints [uncovertebral joints in the cervical spine), ligamentous structures, etc.).

It sounds like you are doing all the right things and with possible cord compression, it might be smart to move forward sooner than later.

I wish you the very best.