Scared - Spinal Cord Disorders Message Board

Queenie22 · 08-16-2008, 07:44 PM

Hi. I am new to this board and trying to figure out how to post my situation but I can't find where I do that at. So I am replying to your post. I am going to have 3 level disc fusion. I am seeing my neuro surgeon on Thursday. So I will find out more then. I am terrified!! I am recovering from total knee replacement in May. It was a revision of a revision surgery. So I have had a lot of knee surgery. But the neck is new to me. I am very scared and don't know what to expect. How long was your surgery? did you have donor bone or did you do your own? How does that work? I have a lot of questions. Let me know how I can post my own situation in order to get some replys to help me out. I just am dreading this surgery. My pain is really bad. i have horrible neck pain and arm pain, right greater than left, but bad. I can't do anything hardly with that arm. I had 2 rounds of epidurals the last set didn't help at all. I am on Percocet 10 mg, and they are not helping me. Just kind of let me know what to do. And any advice would be so appreciated. Thanks! Susan

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33george · 08-18-2008, 08:49 AM

I had a c-3 fusion back in 1994 which went well at the time. They put in a donor bone. Understand from the hip area my time in the hospital would have been longer. As it was I spent 21/2 days there. The next six weeks was a slow recovery period at home with hardly any type of work, etc. My wife thought I was lazy before the surgery!!

I can identify the fear you are having about the unknown. But, you will be fine and look back and wonder why all that fear. Trust your doctor and follow his instructions.

At this point problems have been enocutered with my neck casuing a gerat deal of pain including headaches. I foresee another surgery in the near future.

MisfitCharlie · 08-18-2008, 09:27 AM

Sorry I can't offer any advice, I'm new to this also but I do understand how scared you are I'm headed for a 2 level acdf on Sept. 16th. and am having a hard time coping myself, no surgery experience other than tonsels and a c section 20 yrs ago.
keep reading this board there are alot wonderful people here that have some great advice.I wish you luck in your recovery.
And to the regulars on this board ,thank you !!!! even though I havent posted myself before today. Your stories have helped me more than I can say.

Misfit

SpineAZ · 08-18-2008, 10:35 PM

Queenie:

I found the ACDF (anterior cervical discectomy and fusion) to be easier than any of the knee reconstructive surgeries I had. It doesn't go through any major muscle group and unlike the knee you don't have to worry about weight bearing on the joint. I had an Aspen collar for 6 weeks post ACDF and am glad I did. It did two primary things - kept me in a good position/alignment and helped me ease some post-surgical pain by helping me support my neck/head.