C5-6 surgery redone? - Spinal Cord Disorders Message Board

wrestlermom · 05-20-2004, 08:53 AM

My husband had a spinal fusion on c5-6 last march . He is still in pain and has gone to see 2 NS . He had a mylogram done and it showed that there is still a problem with the nerve . The first NS said he should have a different surgery through the back of the neck to relieve the pressure with a 75% chance it would work for the arm pain but nothing for the neck > THe second one said he would redo the first surgery as he felt the ortho. surgeon did not use a big enough piece . HAs anyone had this happen ? He really hates the thought of another surgery but he also does not want to be inpain .
Thanks for any help, Shawn

greeneyes87015 · 05-23-2004, 08:42 AM

Hi, I just had the same surgery on April 21st, and I still have severe pain in my shoulder, just like it was before the surgery. My dr. says it just takes time for the nerve to heal, but I am so scared I'll be like your husband. It's really scarry when you read these messages just how many people still hurt after having the surgery. I dread just thinking of having another surgery. I'm in this aspen torture collar and thats a pain right there.
Well I hope your husband finds some answers and some relief. I wish him the best.

Nanner · 05-27-2004, 05:55 AM

Shawn, I can really relate to your husband. I have the same thing going on, and it's almost 2 years since my surgery. One NS wanted to redo the operation, this time with plating and a second level. Another said he would just do a posterior foraminotomy to widen the nerve canal.

Has your spouse tried PT? It won't cure the problem, but may make it more bearable.
Me, I'm just delaying the inevitable as long as I can stand it. I don't care to lose that many months of my life again anytime soon. It's hard for both of you, I"m sure, as there are probably days he feels pretty decent and days where he feels like it will never end and he'll never be himself again.

Best of luck to you. It isn't easy when you try and the "cure" isn't one.