Very nervous of surgery now - Spinal Cord Disorders Message Board

sleepygal · 10-27-2003, 06:31 PM

Hi well I went to the Neurosurgeon again today and he told me how he would do the surgery on the c-4,5 disc he will go in on the side by the vocal cords. He is a great Neurosurgeon at St Josephs in Arizona however he said that the side effects could leave me in a wheel chair and maybe problems with Voice box. I have already tried PT and I can't live with the pain so I will have the surgery I guess. He will use a plate please all who have had it let me know how you are doing. I was told I will be in hospital for one day.

more · 10-27-2003, 07:00 PM

I had it done in March 2002. I am doing fine now - in a lot less pain that prior to surgery. Only reason I am having pain now is because of hitting my head on the ceiling and compressing the neck. Prior to doing this I was doing great.

Take a word of advise from someone who has done it after surgery be careful and don't overdue it.

As far as the warnings the doctor gave you about the wheelchair, etc. These are warnings that they are required to give. There are possible complications with all surgeries. Just be sure you have faith in your doctor and don't be afraid to ask him about his record and complications.

Come here if you have more questions - there are alot of people on here who have had complications and a lot still here that are doing great. Remember many of the ones who are doing great are moving on with their lives and enjoying life pain free and don't have time to come here to post anymore.

Good Luck with your decision.