Discectomy

acl828 · 04-14-2003, 12:41 PM

Good morning all! I am, once again, seeking info. You all have been so helpful in the past that I wanted to begin here.
My situation is this: I am 31. Last August, I had a fusion at L4-L5. The surgery did not help me. In fact, it has made my health worse. Before the fusion I had very bad back pain, very bad left leg pain and was unable to sit for more than a few minutes at a time. Now, I have INTENSE left leg, left hip, left buttock, low back pain and pain that now radiates to the right as well. I am unable to sit, stand or lay down for more than a few minutes without pain. I am on a very strong pain med called Actiq. Anyway, I had a discogram on Friday which seemed to reveal that I have problems at L3-L4, continuing at L4-L5 and also now at L5-S1. My Neurologist hinted of a Discectomy if the discogram revealed bad discs. Considering I've already had a fusion, is this the best way to go? Have any of you had to follow up a fusion with a discectomy? I need relief! My pain is constant and has ruined my quality of life. I can't work nor am I able to participate in social activities like going to a movie or out to eat.
I look forward to hearing from you all. Thank you for your time and for sharing your stories.

BAXTER · 04-14-2003, 08:06 PM

Hi ACl828,

I don't fit into the category that you descibe, but I wanted to wish you well with whatever treatment you pursue, I'm so sorry

that you have to have a repeat surgery, and I'll pray that you have a good outcome and can finally find relief

Hopefully somebody will be along soon who has had to go that route.

Take Care,
Baxter http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif

------------------
Two level laminectomy fusion L5-S1 & L2-3 done on 12/6/02.
Fifteen inch scar from the very top of butt crack (sorry), to the bra line.
BAK cages, rods & screws.(Titanium)
My pelvic bone was used for grafting.
Praying that the other two discs in between, won't have to be fused later, as I was told it was a possibility, due to the other two discs in between, not being in that great of shape.
Doc didn't want to fuse four levels, unless it is really necessary.
I would hate to repeat the surgery, as the recovery period, is so very painful.
I also have a free fragment in my T11-12 area, that I'm still refusing surgery for, at this point in time.
That surgery is way too dangerous for me to consider, until if affects my being able to walk.