Feb 24th Front/Back Fusion w/ Laminectomy

[Mollyhopp]

Ryan, being a full time single parent/sole provider myself, I've reached the same decision. Had circumstances been different, I might have shopped around for alternatives, taken a year off, taken enough med's to numb all the pain, or waited for a surgeon who could fix my discs with minimally invasive surgery. Given the life I have, that isn't an option. My son has already "lost" six months of having a normal mother and consequently the life I think he deserves. He hasn't learned to ride a bike, or skate (though both bike and skates are waiting in the basement), and instead of going sledding today, he's watching his second DVD, while I'm drifting in and out of opiate sleep.

You can always google your clinic and surgeon, search for statistics on the procedure you're having done, and if those and your gut instinct leave you feeling secure about your decision, that might be worth more than waiting for a second opinion in your and your son's life right now.

If you look at overall statistics for back surgery, chances are you'll be the dad your son used to have within weeks!

[Mastermind75]

I have sucked up the pain alot more then I would have wanted for him. I'm still working 50-55hr work weeks because I cant afford to just take off. His mother does have visitation on the weekends and she will be helping out for the first 4 weeks after my surgery so I do feel pretty lucky there.

Both my surgeons have been on the best doctors list and have so many awards. I know I am in great hands. I sought them out personally after careful consideration.

Molly are you getting both levels fused and disc replacement?

[Justin]

Dr. Scott Rushton with 3B Orthopaedics, he will be performing my surgery. A Dr. Kirkland will be performing the anterial cut, he is a gastro surgeon.

My father is trying to push a second opinion but to me its not a concern. I dont know.

Hi Ryan,

Dr. Rushton is a great surgeon. I do all of my follow-up with Dr. Richard Balderston at 3B Orthopaedics--it's a top notch clinic. You are in great hands.

Please let me know if you need anything before your operation, as I am just right around the block from the hospital.

[Mastermind75]

Your so right about the clinic. Everyone one of them are highly skilled. Thanks alot I may take you up on your offer.....ha ha ha.

Have you ever had surgery there? I was in a recovery room after a mylogram but I was wondering how the hospital rooms are after surgery.

[roomba]

Hi Ryan,

I had a 4 level laminectomy with Dr. Balderston, also 3B orthopedics, at Penn Hospital on October 7. I was there for 3 days. My experience overall was terrific. From Dr. Balderston, to his nurse practitioner Theresa, to the entire staff of the hospital, it was the best it could have been. I also opted not to get a second opinion because I've had a bit of surgery before and just felt comfortable there (plus I did my homework).

I invested in a private room in their "special" wing which I recommend if you can afford it.

I am now 3 1/2 months post surgery and doing pretty well - I overdid it last weekend and have been paying all week. My advice is to take it as slowly during recovery as you can and be patient.

Good luck and if you have any questions about the hospital, ask away.

[Mastermind75]

Wow your surgery looks intense with so many levels. Sarah is Dr Rushtons NP and she is a sweetheart. Everyone is great.

I'll look into the room but I dont think so. I have no long term or short term so I'm using my federal taxes to keep me afloat while Im out. They have to give ya short term in Jersey you lucky guys...lol

Take it easy and I hope everything goes great. Did you get hardware also with your procedure? The current one?