Just scheduled my surgery w/ Dr. Regan. Very nervous about it but hoping this is the answer to my pain. If there is anyone out there that has had ADR or is planning to, would love to hear your words of wisdom and encouragement!
Thank you-
Samantha

I don't qualify b/c I have two levels, but congratulations for you! I would be nervous too, but just think of how it could really make a difference.

Sam if you dont mind me asking. You had a prior microdiscectomy ? Apparently it wasnt successful...what type symptoms are you continuing to have. Just curious , I was told I would need an ADR in the near future, probably 2 level . Good luck to you & I have heard good things about the ADR. ;)

Thank you, thank you for the kind words... Danagc- I have the same symptoms as before the micro-d: burning center low back pain- can't sit well, bend well or stand for long periods of time. Hips, and buttocks are painful - leg pain is not as bad, as long as I don't over do it...Still can't lift anything over 5 lbs without pain....I'm better than before but not better enough for the quality of life I need...We have a young family and I'm hoping that ADR is the answer, as all the docs have said it would be.....
Anyone who has pre-surgery and post-op tips, please pass them on. :)
thank you again for your words of supprt and encouragement-
Sambo=)

Thanks for the info. Sambo. It sounds like you have a good doctor on your side. I hope only the best for you !!! ;)

You are so lucky, I wish you the best. I've read nothing but good things about ADRs. I am also a multi-disc patient and hope they move in that direction very soon. Please let us know of your progress.

I wanted to ask if you have health insurance and if they are covering your procedure?

Good Luck! :angel:

The ADR's are so new that they are not sure of the long term effects. What if it is rejected or slips? We recieved and ad for these in the mail, yesterday. I read the manual. They are *just now* out of the trial phase. Please, make an informed decision.

:)

The Charite ADR may be new in the U.S., but has been used in Europe for 17 years. At least that is what I have read in many news articles. From what I hear a lot of fusions only last 10 years and the prognosis for ADRs is more like 40 years. I like those odds a lot better. Granted they may have to go in to make some repairs, but when ADRs are the last resort I hope that they can at least give a more normal life.

My 2 cents! :)

I agree w/ you, Painis it. :) I have done my research on the Charite (and others) and have made my decision and currently only talk to people who are supportive of my decision - why cause more stress 12 days from the surgery?! :) I will let you know about insurance- they are covering it but I don't have exactfigures yet. Hospital is covered at 85% but doc is out of network and is cutting a special "deal" since he just went out of network. I'm sure it will be several thousand out of pocket....plus I have no more PT allowance- ouch! $100 a session adds up quickly......It's all worth it, if I can get my life back...:) Thanks again for your words...

Hi Sambo! I wish you the best on your upcoming ADR! I too, will be scheduling the ADR L5/S1 for the end of January! I also had a microdisectomy last year which didn't help my pain at all. My disk is completely collapsed and this is my last resort. I too, feel it will be better than a fusion and am hopeful, yet scared. My dr. is one of 3 to be the first in Arizona to perform the ADR since it has been FDA approved. I'm sorry I can't give you advice, but wanted to let you know I will be following close behind you in it. Please let me know how it goes for you. This may be the best thing that ever happened to us, giving us back the quality of life we need!
Stay positive as I will try and do also.

Gail :)

P.S. I just noticed the date of your post and see would have had the surgery by now! Maybe you are still in the hospital. I hope and pray it went well for you.