Spinal Issues - Spinal Cord Disorders Message Board

karen34 · 04-04-2005, 07:03 AM

well this is my first time here..and i was wondering if anyone could possibly give me some info about spinal cord flattening and how dangerous is it if not fixed? or can it even be fixed? T7 T8 T9 T5-6 have yet not gotten that far nor have C5-6 T11 and 12 have bulgged but from my understanding have not affected the spinal cord..thank you

dwfoster · 04-04-2005, 09:40 PM

I can relay to you what my Neurosurgeon told me.My spinal cord was as flat as a ribbon.He told me that if I didn't get it fixed that I could be paralyzed by just falling down or something simular.He said after looking at the MRi that if it had happened all at once he would have thought he was looking at a paralyzed person.I had the disc removed along with bone spurs and a fusion with a titanium plate.I immediately had more flexibility and movement after surgery.Very little pain and discomfort since then (6 weeks ago).To sum up, the operation was worth it.Now I don't have to worry about a permanent injury.

wimpette · 04-12-2005, 09:07 AM

Karen,
The most important thing for you is to talk to a neurosurgeon or orthopedic surgeon, specialised in spinal problems, who is able to review your MRI/CAT scan and take the time to explain what is going on, what your options are and how urgently this needs to be dealt with. You should also be aware that thoracic spine problems carry a higher surgical risk of complications and should only be done by someone who is specialised in thoracic spine and does a lot of these, even if it means going out of town/state.

Make a list of questions, get several opinions and unless you are rapidly developing severe progressive weakness do not rush into any surgery unless you feel comfortable about it and understand why it is being done.

Good luck,
W