pre op appt today! - Spinal Cord Disorders Message Board

lori1851 · 04-02-2003, 08:59 PM

Hi Back Friends

Well went for pre-op appt. Dr changed something! Instead of doing the 2 bad disc he said he thinks he only needs to do the one that is causing my problems with rt arm etc. I told him hey I dont want to come back in a year or two and have problems again! He said I already have a fusion above the one he wants to fix and doesnt think it would be wise to do the other since it isnt that bad? I told him Hey your the specialist but when you get in there and see that its bad also I want it fixed!!! I had this surgery 10 yrs ago C67. This one I think is C45. Will be spending the night and then go home next day. He said he will still put a plate in and that I dont have to wear the neck brace unless I want to! Well I will wear it until my post op appt just to make sure Im fused!!!!
Lori Indiana

winged phantom · 04-03-2003, 06:57 AM

Hi Lori,
You sound very confused about what your doctor said and seem to be questioninng this new decision. I would, too. Since surgery is still some ways away, is there time to get another opinion from another doctor? I know it's hard to want to open up a can of worms, but it's just a suggestion...
wr

BWL · 04-03-2003, 07:08 AM

Hi Lori,

It seems to me like your pre-op appointment was kind of early since your surgery is over 2 weeks out. I agree with wr in that if you're confused or concerned about your docs flip-flop get a second opinion.

Did this doc do your first fusion?

You're right - do it right the first time.

Bruce

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ACDF with plating and donor bone C6-7 (1/29/03)

lori1851 · 04-03-2003, 07:23 AM

Thanks for the replies,
This Ortho SPine surgeon did not do my first fusion but...... worked for the Ns that did. The NS at the time told me then I had a couple of discs that didnt look right but they didnt need surgery. Well guess what? The disc I am having trouble with now are those!!!! They made my pre op appt early in case someone cancelled their's. I wnt have blood work, ekg, etc until 2 weeks b4. This Spine surgeon is well known Dr Terry Trammel, I know I have said this before he has operated on numerous Indy 500 drivers and put them back together from head to toe. He is an Orthopedic Surgeon specializing in the Spine. Another Dr was there yday and gave his opinion also. He agrees with Dr Trammel. He said why mess with the disc above if it isnt causing pain and symptoms. I really dont want 4 discs fused in a row. So maybe this is the best route to go. I sure pray so! Thanks for listening friends.
Lori