Unable to walk after fusion - Spinal Cord Disorders Message Board

aray · 12-08-2004, 11:28 PM

This is actually my Mom that this is happening to. I feel frustrated because I have no idea how to help . . .

She was recovering well from 4-5 spinal fusion with graft from right hip until two months after surgery when she woke up one morning and could no longer walk. She has been in a wheelchair since (one month). Her right hip will no longer support her weight and collapses. She is also experiences burning sensations and severe spasms in that location. Her surgeon ordered x-rays, a CT scan and blood tests and tells her all is normal. He suggests that the source of the problem is not related to his surgery and recommends that her GP get involved, who in turn says that he doesn't know how to begin to help.

Have there been similar experiences? Can anyone provide recommendations for possible tests to run or things to look for that we can go back to her surgeon with?

Much thanks for any info you can provide.

solardust · 12-09-2004, 10:09 AM

Hi Aray,I cannot help as far as having had that happen, but sure understand your frustration,honestly how can the NS not take responsibility here,if your Mother was fine prior and after surgery,something had to of happened to her nerves afterwards, such as scar tissue,or the fusion slipping a bit and putting pressure on or pinching the nerves,just crazy for him or her to send your Ma to a GP,she really needs more tests,from the NS.I wishyou, your Mother the best, you both must be scared out of her minds.Diana

tintx · 12-09-2004, 12:25 PM

Aray,
So sorry this has happened to your mom, and I hope yall find out something, soon. Surely she will be ok, since she was ok, if you know what I mean. It sounds like it will be transient. Maybe she needs a myelogram?
Also, was part of the spine was fused? Cervical, lumbar?
Good Luck,
Tintx

thecraw · 12-09-2004, 02:39 PM

A Solar said the best bet is to go to another Nerosurgeon. They need to do another complete set of scans, mri etc. It would just be like getting a second opinion. They have to fully rule out that the surgery hasnt damaged anything.

I would make sure I had all my scans, xrays in hand go to the GP and ask for a referrral to a second NS.

flyonthewall · 12-10-2004, 04:55 AM

Or an orthopedic spine specialist.