Question Title: cervical fusion

On June 24, 1996 I had disc fusion on the C5-6 and C6-7 Level. They were not
herniated but degenerated. When I had my MRI done they also checked my
thoracic spine because of problems with pain in mid-back. Found a true
herniated disc at the T8-9 or 9-10 level (not sure seemed to be a discrepancy
between the Doctors I saw and the radiologists report). The report said I
had markeded impingement on my spinal cord from the thoracic disc. Everyone
agreed that the majority of my problems were from the neck. I am now starting
to experience continued pain across my shoulders and in the front of shoulder,
continued muscle tightness down the mid back and tingling in my face (some dizziness)
and arms. I was wondering if this is still from neck problems or if the toracic area
could cause any of this. The neurosurgeon who did the surgery would only
guarntee me an 80% improvement in my symptoms because my neck was in such
bad shape and had been for a long time (many years). Did not have an accident
so not sure what caused the problem to being with. Any ideas about this
situation would be greatly appreciated.

Brenda
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Dear Brenda,

It doesn't sound like the thoracic disc is causing you any problems at this
time. Typical symptoms would be numbness of the skin beginning just above
the navel and into the legs, with variable weakenss of the legs and local
back pain. A severely herniated thoracic disc may cause incontinence of bowel
and bladder function.

The problems you are having may simply be from the cervical fusion procedure
you had in the past. It is conceivable that spine has not fused after surgery
which may be an issue. A simple cervical x-ray would solve that issue.

You should let your surgeon know that you are still having some problems.
There is probably no surgical issue here, but one never knows. Give him
a call.

Good luck.

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