Pain with no end in sight! (Prior lumbar spinal fusion, inquiring about artificial disc replacement surgery)

[vwb]

Hello eyeryone, Lower back fissions that seem to have worked at first. Joined here hoping to find new ways to repair the back pain. I am reading about the AxioMed Freedom Disc and so far love how it works. I live in NC and are not able to find anyone near. And< want someone to accept my insurance and they accept as well. DOWN and out and want to be hopefull. VWB

[trkdoc714]

Wayne,

What level(s) did you have fused? If you're having problems, what does your surgeon say?

Unfortunately, it isn't possible (safely) to implant a disc after fusion. I hate to say "I hope your problem level wasn't fused" but that would be the only way you would be considered a candidate for ADR surgery.

Welcome to SPS. I know there are several members in the same boat as you ready and willing to help.

Good luck,

Bob

[Justin]

Hello eyeryone, Lower back fissions that seem to have worked at first. Joined here hoping to find new ways to repair the back pain. I am reading about the AxioMed Freedom Disc and so far love how it works. I live in NC and are not able to find anyone near. And< want someone to accept my insurance and they accept as well. DOWN and out and want to be hopefull. VWB

Hi Wayne,

Welcome to the Spine Patient Society.

You are in good company with Spine Patients that know what you are going through and that are here to lend a helping hand. Following along Bob's questioning above: what level(s) did you have fused? If you get a chance, give us a few sentences about your spine (past surgeries, how long you've had spine trouble, how you are doing currently, any recent imaging, etc.).

Once again, welcome--we are here to help.

[vwb]

I have L1-2 and L3-4 fused together. Between L3-4 and S1 are the ones that are in trouble. I just can't have any more fused. Thanks for asking. Wayne

[laid up doc]

the Freedom disc is still in trials... no idea when it would be FDA approved and available.

not sure if any trials are still recruiting, but prior spine surgery would preclude participation in a trial.

the spine surgeon who does the most ADR's in NC is Dom Coric at Carolina Neurosurgery and Spine in Charlotte... where are you?

[Justin]

I have L1-2 and L3-4 fused together. Between L3-4 and S1 are the ones that are in trouble. I just can't have any more fused. Thanks for asking. Wayne

Hi Wayne,

Thanks for the information. With your prior spinal fusions and the number of levels affected, it would follow that your lumbar spine (and possibly facet joints) may demonstrate a significant degree of degeneration. If this is the case, then artificial disc replacement would be contraindicated (meaning it would not be the best choice for your spine). However, only a qualified medical professional can make this assessment after looking at your imaging and performing a complete history and physical exam.

Have you had any surgical evaluations? If so, what have they revealed? Any recent imaging of your spine?

I do hope your pain is manageable. Please keep us posted and let us know if you have any other questions. Good luck.