I posted this in another area and someone who saw it said I might wanna post in here, so here goes. I saw a specialist a few days ago after pain management recommended him. Anyway I am 34 years old and have had neck problems for 10 years. The doc wants to put in an artificial disc at c4/c5. He said It would help me greatly and highly recommends it. My question is has anyone had this done and can you give me info on recovery, pain, what its like after surgery and how long before you can do normal activities, how long your in the hospital, and anything else you can help me with. I've been doing research, but am hoping someone that has had this done or knows someone that has can give me feedback. I know this procedure has only been around since 2007 for the neck in the U.S., so it may be hard to predict what the long term outcome may be, but I am sure there are those that have some information.
I really think the best you can do is to get two more opinions. First, to verify that the recommended surgery really is the one you need/want, and second, to get professional opinions about artificial disks as opposed to traditional options.
I will get at least another opinion or two. I have ruled out fusion surgery, because I know too many people who have had it and are worse then before the surgery. No matter what all docs say and research I do I still want to hear from people that have had this done or know people that have since they can give a lot of information. I understand that each person body and healing are different, but with talking to docs and those that have had it done and the research I've been doing will help me a great deal with my decision. I am having knee surgery in August so, the doc told me to get all the information during that time and then get back to him by years end.
I am 3 months post OP for C5-6 anterior fusion surgery. It went extremely well, I was very anxious not having had any surgery prior and not knowing what to expect. The biggest complaint was muscle spasms in your shoulder blade area afterwards. Which muscle relaxers and massages relieve. I see you also posted shoulder issues too, my shoulder and arms stopped hurting after this surgery. Find the top neurosurgeon in your area, mine used ground up bone spurs and synthetic compounds to make the fusion take. I wish you luck! ps i am now scheduled for L5 S1 surgery in 5 days...wish me luck on that one!!
