Post L5/S1 Fusion on Charite Artificial Disc Replacement

**dalhousie** · 11-18-2009, 12:21 PM

I totally agree with what you say Alison

. I had a successful fusion op after a decade of failed conservative management & decided I would have surgery again if I got in another mess with my spine - which is what happened in the summer of '08. The specialist who did my 2nd surgery commented on this & said a lot of patients who have good results first time round opt for surgery again when DDD rears its head. If surgery is the best long term solution for pain relief then patients are going to go down that route especially if it's worked well for them in the past.

I really hope things work out & you're able to get back to a normal activity level.

**ajj1001** · 12-23-2009, 03:23 AM

Quick update, had a new x ray yesterday to see how fusion was doing and its still not fused. There is some bone forming on the right side but not much showing at the left. The consultant does not think it is moving butthinks it is just the hardware holding it.

My discogram has an 18 week wait so will probably be March 2010.

**Cindylou** · 12-23-2009, 09:17 AM

Alison, do they know why it's not fusing? Are you on extra calcium and vitamin D? Just wondering, because my Dr. switched me to Evista along w/ a prescription dose of vitamin D for 3 months, to see if that helps my bone look better. If you aren't, I would highly recommend asking about it. Good luck!

**Lynda** · 12-24-2009, 07:01 AM

Hi there Alison

Sorry to read you're not fused around the charite disc yet...there's still time isn't there and its good that there is some bone formation. Maybe its 'slow but steady' ehh?

I hope 2110 brings you a solid fusion and reduced pain, seems you're facing another year of hospital appointments and interventions though. What a wait for the discogram, fingers crossed you get it done sooner and have a plan of action for a more comfortable life.

Seasons Greetings and All the best for the New Year to you and yours and everyone here.

Lynda

**ajj1001** · 12-24-2009, 11:34 AM

Originally Posted by Lynda

I hope 2110 brings you a solid fusion

hopefully sooner than that! Not too stressed about it all, Mr Ross thinks the screws and rods are holding up ok and if there is more stuff going on then its pointless getting worried about one little part of the problem.

Have a lovely Christmas. x

**ajj1001** · 12-24-2009, 11:37 AM

Originally Posted by Cindylou

Alison, do they know why it's not fusing? Are you on extra calcium and vitamin D? Just wondering, because my Dr. switched me to Evista along w/ a prescription dose of vitamin D for 3 months, to see if that helps my bone look better. If you aren't, I would highly recommend asking about it. Good luck!

Not been recommended any supplements, my diet is good and varied so that should be ok. Its far more likely to be the huge amount of stuff on the left hand side that needed removing that is making that slower or that there is micro movement from the charite.

**Phylly** · 12-24-2009, 01:10 PM

Allison,
I have been popping in on your thread and want to agree with CL about supplements. I went to an endocrinologist because I had been put on Forteo after my surgery to help with bone growth. I get new blood work every 3 months and at first I lacked calcium and then not enough vitamin D. We do not get enough calcium just from our food and don't always get enough sunshine and vitamin D. I was surprised at how much more I need to take. My levels are going up now. Perhaps you need a specialist to keep an eye on you. I know it is one more Dr. to throw in the mix but they do keep a look out at what you need for good bone growth or what might be interfering with growth. I wish you the best for the New Year.
Phylly

**Cindylou** · 12-27-2009, 10:28 AM

Good input Phylly. I totally agree. Supplements are always recommended, especially for pre-, peri-, post-menopausal women here in the States. We do not get enough calcium, nor D, in our diets w/o them. I am a calcium junky even without the supplements (huge milk drinker, yogurt, broccoli, cottage cheese, etc.) and I was very deficient in calcium and vitamin D before the supplements. On top of these, I take a prescription calcium supplement, Evista, daily. I hope you will consider the supplements. Good luck Alison!

**Justin** · 12-27-2009, 10:32 AM

Great advice everyone. Vitamin D is key for calcium absorption in the gut. It might be worthwhile to discuss options with a qualified medical professional.

Be well.

**ajj1001** · 01-05-2010, 11:09 AM

Originally Posted by Katie

Alison, I sincerely hope that you are able to get past your pain as well. Is there anything I can do to help? A chat, or ?? Hugs to all.

Thanks Katie,( I am replying on my thread as I don't want to hijack dave's)

I think its a combination of bad pacing over christmas, ice and snow so i've not been able to get out for even a short walk and hoping that this year is an improvement on the last.

Its our 25th wedding anniversary and my hubbies 50th birthday so we were meant to be taking an RV across Canada but I can't book/plan anything the way I am at the moment. It takes a bit of getting over not doing things we wanted to do.