Has anyone had a multi level lamy without fusion? - Spinal Cord Disorders Message Board

AKGIRL · 03-29-2005, 01:49 PM

Has anyone had a posterior multi level cervical laminectomy without a fusion? Is this rare? I think most folks are fused...but, I had a 5 level cervical lam without.. l am 15 months out and still suffer daily with spasms..some days worse than others. Also recently have throat spasms and some residual 'buzzing' in my legs. I live in Alaska and my surgeons are all 'down south'..I feel quite isolated and dont know who I can really turn to with daily qustions...thanks for any information!

djw6u · 03-29-2005, 03:41 PM

I had a multi-laminectomy w/o fusion (C4-T1) on 01/18/2005 for spinal stenosis. Only problems I have had so far are numbness in both legs from my knees down. I am going to see the surgeon tomorrow morning for my first post-op appointment.

AKGIRL · 03-29-2005, 07:12 PM

I just sent you a reply on your thread! You are the first I have found that has had a multi level lami without a fusion and I cant tell you glad I am to hear from you. I hope your numbness resolves soon! My doc said it takes a year for 1 mm of nerve to regrow...and to expect many sensations. The best hint I can offer is to indulge in the wireless heating pads. I live with them and they help SO much with any muscle spasms. I was a posterior lami and the spasms can be relentless...were you also a posterior approach?
Take care...let me know how your appointment goes. I bet you will be fine!

bozzie · 03-30-2005, 10:07 AM

I just had a three level laminectomy with foraminotomies two weeks ago (3/16/05). I thought it was strange that you can take away so much without a fusion. I don't wear any brace and never did. I started driving again the other day! By the end of the day my neck does hurt quite a bit, but so far I am very pleased. Most of my hand, arm and shoulder symptoms seem to be getting better. It is good to know that there is still much more healing to go! When you are dealing with nerves, I think everyone has different reactions. Everyone perceives pain and tingling differently. The good news is that most will get some kind of relief in the end! Just hang in there and it will surely get better!

Later,
Boz

AKGIRL · 03-30-2005, 07:29 PM

Thanks for writing Boz.. and for being so optimistic! I appreciate it. I have to believe the spasms will stop at some point. I was SO active before all this, it is hard to stay chipper! I was certainly not nearly as mobile as you at the beginning of my recovery! Good for you...
I had the extra complication of passing out while still in the hospital...fell on the floor the day after the laminectomy...I had a soft collar on..but I often wonder if it may have messed things up and may be the reason for my long healing time. Anyway..thanks again for writing..