New member considering NuVasive XL trial

[Victoria]

First of all thank you in advance for any and all advice. I am in the mist of making a very important decision and would really like to hear from any other fellow back sufferers who have taken part in the NuVasive XL TDR trial. I also have 2 recommendations for disc replacement from two German Dr.s. I feel confident that it is the right solution for my diseased disc. I think these forums are an amazing way of helping each other and I hope to be of help to others in the future.

[Katie]

Welcome Victoria. You won't find a better bunch than with this forum, speaking from experience. There is a friendship and feeling of caring here that far surpasses any other forum I've found.

I can't help with the exact procedure you are considering, but I have the NuVasive NeoDisc ADR in my neck at C5/6, and have had the XLIF and ALIF procedure done at L4/5/S1, with PEEK cages. I believe that NuVasive was the company that started the X-series of surgeries (feel free to correct me anyone ) The XLIF was significantly easier to cope with than the ALIF, with its reduced affect on the body. As you would know, it goes through the psoas muscle without cutting or damaging any nerves, compared to other procedures. The incision was only two inches or less in length, compared to double that for the ALIF. I had three incisions, three separate surgeries in a seven hour session, so I can compare them all fairly

If I can help with any more, although I know it isn't exactly what you were asking, just shoot me another post or PM.

[Victoria]

Welcome Victoria. You won't find a better bunch than with this forum, speaking from experience. There is a friendship and feeling of caring here that far surpasses any other forum I've found.I can't help with the exact procedure you are considering, but I have the NuVasive NeoDisc ADR in my neck at C5/6, and have had the XLIF and ALIF procedure done at L4/5/S1, with PEEK cages. I believe that NuVasive was the company that started the X-series of surgeries (feel free to correct me anyone ) The XLIF was significantly easier to cope with than the ALIF, with its reduced affect on the body. As you would know, it goes through the psoas muscle without cutting or damaging any nerves, compared to other procedures. The incision was only two inches or less in length, compared to double that for the ALIF. I had three incisions, three separate surgeries in a seven hour session, so I can compare them all fairly If I can help with any more, although I know it isn't exactly what you were asking, just shoot me another post or PM.

I had my surgery 10-21-2011. Dr.spayde used the lateral approach on the right and went in thru the back to do a revision discectomy. X-rays look great. My left leg is numb and cold so before I left the hospital they did an ultra sound to rule out blood clot and followed up with a cat scan. So I ended up in the hospital 1night. I am home icing and taking 1/2norco and ibuprofen. I just walked 20mins and did the stairs! I am able to get in and outta bed by myself. Looking forward to my recovery!