It's my turn now.... ACDF time! - Spinal Cord Disorders Message Board

moonchaser · 06-22-2007, 09:49 AM

I had my 2nd opinion with a "conservative" neurosurgeon day before yesterday. The doctor recommended a 2 level ACDF for c5/6 and c6/7. He said it would be best to go ahead and take care of them both at the same time. He seemed positive that I could get some relief from the pain and neuro symptoms.

I find it ironic that he was supposed to be the more conservative of the two neurosurgeons my Physical Rehab doctor sent me too. The first doctor recommended a one level so I could have a faster recovery period. She then joked she'd see me in about two years to do the other. My doc didn't like that idea and agrees that I should probably do the two level.

So now the reality of "oh my gosh they're going to cut me open and take out my discs" is setting in. I know not to be scared, but apprehensive is probably a good word! I haven't scheduled it yet - I'm trying to figure out how to fit it in to my work schedule. The NS' initial thoughts are 1 night hospitalization, and 2-4 weeks off work. No collar, and probably a few trips to PT afterwards.

I'm bummed that the verdicts are in, but sort of relieved at the same time if that makes sense. Any post-op tips and advice will be appreciated and listened to!

Moonchaser

julyg · 06-22-2007, 02:20 PM

I had same surgery 8 months ago and my opinion is if you need to get it done, do it with one surgery. I will never go through it again.

I went back to work full time after 3 weeks but still today I am no where near where I was pre-surgry activtity level.

I was hiking (8 hrs daily) in the rockies 2 months prior
to surgery, yes with hellacious spasms but still active. This surgery wiped me out! I had a good amount of bone spurs removed but still exact discs you are mentioning.

I am fusing well, but I am not about to hike or boat or do anything that will interfere with my healing. Dr says fusing takes up to 1 yr.

I am not going to joing the multiple ACDF club!

Good luck

July

DELTA 22 · 06-22-2007, 06:50 PM

plan on 4 weeks off work or more. I had three levels done may 30th ...and I still cant do alot..even sitting up without head support for very long...I think doctors play down recovery time.

poopoopadoop · 06-22-2007, 06:53 PM

Yeah, I had one level done 2 mos ago and really needed a good 3 wks. With 2 levels, it would be hard to go back sooner. I wish you all the best. You will feel relieved to get it over with.

Best,
Lisa

SKZ · 06-22-2007, 07:08 PM

I had the same ACDF surgery as you will have. I am DEFINITELY better than before the surgery. Its not a panacea, but it does seem to help many people. I didnt wear a collar and am real happy about that. Those collars really sound horrible to me. I am going for my 6 month check up in July. I BETTER be fusing. I would definitely not have done it 2 separate times. I think its much better to do it all at once.