2nd opinion, even more confused

[rhatzy]

Katie,
Thanks for your response. I do agree with both you and Mark. I guess the biggest issue with spinal patients is when do you have surgery? I am very worried about creating nerve damage or going so far that fusion is my only option. I had one neurosurgeon tell me he did not care if it was bone on bone as long as it wasn't creating a lot of pain or problems. That just didn't seem right to me. I am fortunate enough that my pain is not unmanageble but I have altered my life so much because I am afraid of hurting myself in any way. I am not sure if I can get any of that back but I sure hope so. I am going this Friday to see another doctor who is an orthopaedic who seems to be a very upfront and honest doctor. I have asked doctors point blank with their experience where they see me in a couple of years and none of them want to touch that subject. I guess that is what we are left with when lawyers run the country. (Sorry, if anyone is a lawyer)
Thanks again,
Scott

You have surgery when you have no life. When all you think about is the pain and agony of going thru another day., of getting enough meds to ease the pain, suffering thru depression which comes with chronic pain and drug use. ADR is very advanced and getting better. My options were 2 level fusion or doing nothing, both of which have the same outcome, more PAIN and no life. 2 level ADR was my only hope even tho I realized it was not perfect, however it was the best option I had.

I made the decision and believe me, it was not easy as I was scared sh..less, but I knew it was my only hope and I can tell you that now I am pain free and doing what I want and most importantly, I have my life back. I had my 2 level in January of 2008. My recovery took about 5 months.

I believe surgery, when used at the right time, is the best option. If you are in the above mentioned situation, why waste it on more PT and other "conservative" treatments? Sometimes, I think these doctors want to spread the wealth to others in the field. They know you will eventually come back.

Mark

[ajj1001]

You have surgery when you have no life. When all you think about is the pain and agony of going thru another day., of getting enough meds to ease the pain, suffering thru depression which comes with chronic pain and drug use. ADR is very advanced and getting better. My options were 2 level fusion or doing nothing, both of which have the same outcome, more PAIN and no life. 2 level ADR was my only hope even tho I realized it was not perfect, however it was the best option I had.

Getting the right choice for you whether it be ADR, fusion or hybrid is the most important thing. And I totally agree that it should be a complete last choice, no other conservative option remains untried.

[Gilbert P]

I agree with the above post try it all before getting the Knife, I am at the turning point been there done that and still in pain!

Tried to go overseas could not afford it. Tried to get the surgery here Ins would not approve ADR and to be honest I did not want to have the Four level fusion etc,

Never Give Up

Gil

[trkdoc714]

I wholeheartedly agree. Surgery should be considered when all else fails.

My choice was simply put, surgery or apply for disability. There were no other options.

Good luck Scott. I hope you can go a lifetime without surgery and minimal discomfort.

Bob