Has anyone had cervical disc replacement surgery? - Back & Neck

soreandsleepy

Jan 31, 2012

I have ddd with radiculopathy at C5/C6, bone spurs at C1/C2 and C5/C6, osteoarthritis of the spine, herniated disks in the lumbar region, and fibromyalgia.  I have trouble walking with numbness and pain going down the legs, very little neck mobility, pain through the shoulders, neck, down the arms to the thumbs, numb arms and hands.  My neurosurgeon recommended replacing the disk at C5/C6 (the last 2 cortisone injections did not do much to help).  However he cautioned me that fibromyalgia patients often have significant problems after this surgery.

I haven't seen a rheumatologist recently but have a new appointment with one in a couple weeks to discuss.  I'm also going through a cardiac workup with a cardiologist to try to level out my bp problems.

I have problems with blood pressure spiking up due to the pain and this caused a TIA in 2010.  My blood pressure is currently high and this concerns me as stroke is a potential side effect.

Has anyone with FMS had the surgery?  What were the longer term results?

Also, I am trying to apply both for SSD benefits and an LTD policy via Prudential.  Both have told me that there is no physical proof that there is a reason for my pain - even with my non-medically trained eyes, I can see the bone spurs pressing into the spine, the radiculopathy, and the herniated disks.  Any suggestions on how to prove that the pain is debilitating?  I have narcolepsy and am taking Percoset and Skelaxin for the pain after graduating from Ultram a few months ago.  The meds make me extremely sleepy and worsen narcolepsy symptoms.

I also am throwing up whenever I use the computer (my work is in IT) because of the bone spurs at C5/C6.

Also fighting with workers compensation as my employer position is that the bone spurs could not be caused by 18 hour days over a PC in poor ergonomic conditions.

Shrooms

Feb 05, 2012

To: sealhlp

I am 37 and I am going in tomarrow for c5/6 and c6/7 disc replacement. Both my parents have had this done. Years ago. My mom c5/6 and my dad had one lower lumbar done. Dont know which one. Both swear by the replacement. No pain and no complications. I am scared. I have bad pain in left arm starting at the thumb. I can follow the nerve by the numbness from thumb all the way to my shoulder. I have not worked for 2 weeks due to pain. I dont know why people are going to Europ. My surgon said they now have very good replacement discs. The whole operation will cost me 30k. I have no insurence and the hospital said they gave me a 62% discount since no insurence. I paid 7500 now and I will be on a payment program. At least no interest. I will repost to let you know how it went. I wish everyone well that has posted here. I feel your pain. To alot of you that said they are having trouble getting a doc to relieve pain, I suggest to go to another doc. A neurologist is what ya want. Both parents and myself are seeing one. I have hope because of my parents success with this. Good luck to all and ME.

rtjrevie

Feb 05, 2012

Sorry don't know much about the surgery you are having, but wanted to wish you luck!! We all here will be thinking about you.

Bridget521

Feb 08, 2012

To: vrob

I am a 54yr. old nurse from Mpls. with severe lumbar disc. degeneration. I, too, have been researching Stenum Hospital in Germany as a better alternative to a fusion here in the U.S. If you have any information for me that would be helpful in my quest, please send it to me.
Thanks.
Bridget

Jaceli

Feb 14, 2012

I had C6-c7 disk replacement 8 weeks. I felt immediate relief in my arm however, I am starting to feel my nerve shaking in my arm again...is this normal? I am so scared of the pain I went through before the surgery.

vrob

Feb 15, 2012

To: Bridget521

Their website www.stenumhospital.com is very helpful, but I imagine you have already checked that out? I would start by giving Sue Hart a call. (Her number is on the website.) She was very helpful to me in answering any questions I had and helped me through the process neccessary to get things sent over there and surgery scheduled. Believe me, I had A LOT of questions about everything and so did my husband. I had never been to a foreign country before, and to go there and have surgery on my neck was especially frightening for me. She was willing to answer anything-surgery related or otherwise. She spends time in the US and also in Germany at Stenum, but I was always to get ahold of her one way or the other! That is where I would start-even if you are not sure if that is what you want to do yet. They will want your current x-rays, or better yet MRI disc report to see if the surgery is possible and they will examine these and let you know if they can help-free of charge. I had the M-6 implanted in 3 levels in my neck and have been very pleased with my results. I am actually heading to Big Sky Montana to go skiing next month-something I wasn't sure I would be able to do anymore especially if I would have had fusion done in my neck. I hope that helps you a little-please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions I can help you with at all-I can honestly say that it was an awesome experience for me all the way around, and I hope you will find the same solution for yourself. Keep us posted!!

cashmere8

Feb 16, 2012

To: Shrooms

Can you tell me who did your parents surgery and who did yours? I hope everything is going well for you and your pain free.

CWBoston

Feb 20, 2012

To: vrob

I am facing 2 c-disc removal and fusion, I heard of dr. Ritter, Is there a independent sitie to research Dr. Ritter and Stennem hospital?

steve1684

Feb 21, 2012

To: all

hi all,

I had artificial disc replacement at c-6 c-7 on 02/10/12. I did research on the internet before the surgery and remember seeing this post. I just stumbled accross it and thought i would sign up and leave a comment to help anyone else who is trying to make a decision. My surgery went as planned and has helped me be able to lay down for the first time in a long time. I am recovering day by day gaining more strength and mobility. A neurosurgeon in St. Louis did mine using the Prestige artificial disc. Good luck to all.

nattyrn7190

Feb 22, 2012

To: dm5SD

Hi, I just had a total disk replacement at C5/C6 and I am only 28. It has been 6 weeks post-op and I am still having pain down my arm and numbness and tingling in my right hand. The neck pain seemed to ease for the first couple of weeks after surgery, But I am a RN and since I have been back to work, all of my symptoms I had pre-op are coming back, the nagging neck pain, and shoulder pain. I am dissappointed and frustrated to say the least, so continue with therapy and wait on the surgery.

DGH364

Feb 22, 2012

To: All

I was involved in a car accident in November 2010. After visiting the hospital who said it was whip lash and it would get worse before it better, I visited my GP, as I was in agony, who sent me for an x-ray and MRI. C6-C7 was compressing my spinal cord as such I was sent to see a consultant. He advised a ADR and eventually I was operated upon in mid July 2011. 2-3 months prior to surgery I developed severe shaking in my left limbs this complimenting the pain and loss of strength. After the op I began to show signs of recovery for the first 2-3 months although the shaking which was now controlled by baclofen was still present in an underlying state.
Then I began a downward spiral my neck is painful my head feels too heavy to support I still have a massive weakness in my lest arm. I am still off and my medication list includes tramadol, pregablin,oramorth,naproxen etc.
I have been offered facet joint injections but I think this will only stem the pain I need fixing. I am now waiting for another MRI before I decide on the direction forward. But I an sure its my neck causing all of my problems as it cracks and grinds and grates most of the time. Worst still is the fact I struggle to walk through a door way without catching it and I can not cope with people surrounding me. I am just posting this to let people who are also struggling know they are not alone.

MSDOO

Feb 23, 2012

To: DGH364

I'm scheduled for a disc fusion of 6-7 on March 12th. I had C5-6 done about 3 years ago with success, just had chiari surgery one year ago in December, and now I just blew the C6-7 and need surgery. My entire left arm has not strength and cannot use it much. In lots of pain, just waiting for surgery. I don't know why I have so many issues with my neck, but I have not had a lot of luck. I'm trying to find out why this keeps happening.

DGH364

Feb 24, 2012

To: MSDOO

Hope everything goes well for you. It seems once you have one problem another develops. Let me know how you get on.

vrob

Feb 24, 2012

To: CWBoston

CWBoston,
I do not know of any other sites besides the two listed below:
www.stenum-adr.com or www.stenumhospital.com
I have looked around a little bit and know that there are other places outside of the US that also perform the procedures that may be worth checking out. There are also sites set up just for "bashing" Stenum Hospital (and other places) I found when searching. Being in the medical profession myself, I know that not everyone is the same and not every outcome will be perfect or predictable. One of the people from the US that was in Stenum when I was in there (we have somewhat kept in touch) had problems later and went somewhere in Italy I believe to have more surgery done and he seems to fine now. That being said, there were numerous upon numerous success stories that have come out of Stenum also. I guess the botom line is to do your research and choose what you feel is best and pray for the best outcome possible. That is what seems to have worked for me, and I feel very blessed with where I am at right now! I wish you all the best with whatever your decision may be! :0)

Smiley2000

Feb 24, 2012

To: All

Hi there,

I had Neck-fusion/stabalization of C5,6,7 done on 2 May 2011.  I lived in South Africa at that stage (had to go for op before I could get Visa-doc to approve Visa to Australia!).

I had a lot of pain in my right arm, hand and my neck was always in spasm and had Physio for about 7 years, then I went to see Visa doc who sent me for a MRI and I went to a Orthopaedic Surgeon and he referred me to a Neuro Surgeon.  Both of them were involved in my operation.

I now have 2 titanium disks.

My point is:  A normal Orthopaedic Surgeon and Neoro Surgeon can help you with this operation.  Should be able to find one close to you, in a normal Private Hospital or even good State Hospitals/Teaching Hospitals for those without private Insurance.

With modern technology this operation is not so risky anymore and has a very high success rate.

I wish you all the best,

cindylee42

Feb 26, 2012

To: ALL

IN 2010 I HAD A DISCOCTOMY AT C4 WITH A FUSION. I WAS REAR ENDED IN 06 AT THE AGE OF 36. AS A RESULT TO THE ACCIDENT AND THE CARLESSNES OF MY PAST DR'S, DONT EVER GET A PROCEDURE THATS CALLED RADIOFREQUENCY. GET A SECOND, POSSIBLY A THIRD. BECAUSE OF THAT PROCEDURE I NOW HAVE RSD. TO LOOK IT UP JUST GOOGLE RSD. SCARRY. EVERYDAY IS A BLESSING TO PUT THE RSD BACK INTO REMISSION. I SUFFERED FOR 4 YRS MANY MRI'S THAT DIDNT SHOW THE SPINAL CORD DAMAGE I NOW HAVE. THANK YOU DR.SLAUGHTER... I NOW HAVE DDD IN EVREY LEVEL (CERVICAL,LUMBAR AND THORASIC) BLOWN OUT DISK'S AND GOOD GOD SO MUCH MORE PRIOR TO THE ACCIDENT MY HEALTH WAS MY #1 GOAL.TODAY ITS A PRIORITY. IM STILL STRUGLING AND UNABLE TO GET ANY RELEIF FOR THE NERVE PAIN ASSOCIATED WITH THE DMG TO S.CORD AND THE RSD. ANY SUGESTIONS?

mizzbryce

Feb 29, 2012

To: bethd503

he should try epidural steriod injections not facet not trigger point BUT EPIDURAL STERIOD INJECTIONS sometimes it takes two or three shots IT TAKES OUT THE INFLAMMATION CAUSING PAIN im a suffer as well have had 3 neck surgerys and two back

hurt4surtin939

Feb 29, 2012

To: Gfarrell5

i had a two level disc surgery c5/6c6/7 on the very same day.i have not had any relief from the neck pain headaches and stiffness as a matter of fact ever since the procedure i have new symptoms my right arm feels fatigued and weak. i just recently went for MRI & CAT scan and was told it looked good.So yes i know exactly what your saying and im just as frustrated as you. Where did you have your surgery and how are you feeling now?

hurt4surtin939

Feb 29, 2012

i had a two level disc surgery c5/6c6/7 on the very same day.i have not had any relief from the neck pain headaches and stiffness as a matter of fact ever since the procedure i have new symptoms my right arm feels fatigued and weak. i just recently went for MRI & CAT scan and was told it looked good.So yes i know exactly what your saying and im just as frustrated as you. Where did you have your surgery and how are you feeling now?

hurt4surtin939

Feb 29, 2012

To: Shrooms

well how did it go and how are you feeling?

mopsy1

Feb 29, 2012

To: steve1684

What was the name of the surgeon who did your operation in St. Louis?

steve1684

Mar 03, 2012

To: mopsy1

Dr. Youkilis

tazkim

Mar 05, 2012

To: bethd503

Beth-
where did your husband go for surgery?
Dr name if possible as well.

I need two adjacent disks replaced and work comp will not pay - so I am going at it with my own insurance then fight w/c at later date
thanks
Todd

miket759

Mar 07, 2012

To: all

I've had two surgeries one in '04' for c5 c6 and one in '10' for c6 c7...i'm heading in for c3 c4 in 2 months so that's now number three in 9 years and all are fusions.... I've got to say this:... I've not had any successful surgery do to my injury in '03'...each time i go for surgery..it gets worse...but the problem is...once you take a disc out...the pressure from the top to bottom of that missing disc has to go somewhere... that's why all of us here are still having problems...if there is anyone about to go thru any of the procedures mentioned here.....DON'T DO IT...you will END UP as the same of us here writing....

Georgedc

Mar 08, 2012

To: hurt4surtin939

Had the surgery done in 1990, C5/C6 C6/C7 by Dr. Laws. Saw many neurosurgeons. I have done a lot of swimming and biking since. Many surgery patients head to the pool and some think it helps. Do only low impact exercise i.e. no jogging even if you feel you can.

Have survived multiple auto accidents since but try to stay healthy.

jill370

Mar 08, 2012

To: miket759

I agree with Mike Don't do it. Had my neck fused in Sept 2010 and the nuerosurgeon tells me there is nothing wrong. I only spent 20 hours in hospital and still have major headaches, and cannot do things I was told I would be able to do. I see a pain therapist for triggerpoints and will not let her inject them again. My surgeon was(I no longer see him) adamant that I was having no problems. Now I have no job as I cannot do what I was doing prior to surgery. I agree DONT DO THE SURGERY WAIT as long as you can.

cvwalk

Mar 19, 2012

To: NYJoe

Hello Joe-In Jan/12 -I had disc replacement sx between C5-C6 and C6-C7 in Canada using the Pro Disc.  Hospital stay for me was one day. I had nerve impairment in several areas and my spinal cord was being pinched in several areas prior to sx. This had been going on for several years.

As of today (March/12) my heal time is following the norm.  My nerve impairment is gone and numbing prior to sx has waned considerably, but not all sensations have come back as yet, but I am noticing daily a slow upsweep in sensations in areas that were previously without due to the nerve pinching.
I was forewarned that shoulder discomfort could last several months and that the headaches would last up to six months (my h/aches have not proven to be severe). I utilized physio, IMS (type of accupuncture) treatments, Tai Chi and exercise heavily prior to sx and as of Mar/12, I am beginning physio again only because of the physical change of the chronic what was to the physical newness, is causing a bit of muscle tension and my body is needing a bit of help for the new physical adjustment.  The pre-sx chronic pain has dissipated to an intermittent discomfort.

As with any type of sx, there is absolutely no guarantee.  Am I back to perfect, no.  Is it better than what was, absolutely.  I did a lot of research prior to sx and knew I could have either disc implants or fusion.  I chose disc implants for  personal reasons.

I am going back to work in one week.   Enjoy your day.

Chyrol from British Columbia

whoknew53

Mar 24, 2012

To: sealhlp

I had disc replacement surgery @c6-7 at the end of 2010 and it worked immediately. I'd had a prior fusion @ c4-5 in 1999 and the difference in recovery and mobility after the replacement was profoundly less painful and immediate relief was evident, similar to having a very painful tooth pulled. I had this done in Jacksonville Fl @ Memorial Hospital by Dr. Bahrami.This was only the third time he had done this procedure. I have had no further issues with the area since, a major improvement over the previous fusion. I highly suggest this approach to resolving your problem.

nettleton44

Mar 24, 2012

To: bethd503

Many people have posted about the pain after cervical fusions. Though there are many causes and I see the doctors agree, muscle spasms, joint irritation above and below the fusion etc...
I have had terrible chronic pain from 2007 until 3 days ago. I tried ever imaginable way to get rid of it from massage, acupuncture, cupping, therapy massage, pain pills ( strong doses) steroid injection, Botox...the list goes on and on. But a few days ago my sister told me about an herb that Dr Oz talked about ( I know Dr Oz???, I was skeptical too) I tried it and the first ONE I took relieved the terrible tension in the muscles in my head, neck and shoulders by 80%. Now just days after I am 95% better. I still have some joint discomfort but the inflammation causing the horrible soreness it almost gone. Hopefully I will be able to find something that helps that so I can return to work. But please try this herb it was a miracle for me!!! ZYFLAMEND by NewChapter. I am NOT getting anything for writing this. I was so disappointed when I came on line to find help but found only others suffering like me. Just give it a try!!!

nettleton44

Mar 24, 2012

To: lj14

Many people have posted about the pain after cervical fusions. Though there are many causes and I see the doctors agree, muscle spasms, joint irritation above and below the fusion etc...
I have had terrible chronic pain from 2007 until 3 days ago. I tried ever imaginable way to get rid of it from massage, acupuncture, cupping, therapy massage, pain pills ( strong doses) steroid injection, Botox...the list goes on and on. But a few days ago my sister told me about an herb that Dr Oz talked about ( I know Dr Oz???, I was skeptical too) I tried it and the first ONE I took relieved the terrible tension in the muscles in my head, neck and shoulders by 80%. Now just days after I am 95% better. I still have some joint discomfort but the inflammation causing the horrible soreness it almost gone. Hopefully I will be able to find something that helps that so I can return to work. But please try this herb it was a miracle for me!!! ZYFLAMEND by NewChapter. I am NOT getting anything for writing this. I was so disappointed when I came on line to find help but found only others suffering like me. Just give it a try!!!

nettleton44

Mar 24, 2012

To: Claudete13

Many people have posted about the pain after cervical fusions. Though there are many causes and I see the doctors agree, muscle spasms, joint irritation above and below the fusion etc...
I have had terrible chronic pain from 2007 until 3 days ago. I tried ever imaginable way to get rid of it from massage, acupuncture, cupping, therapy massage, pain pills ( strong doses) steroid injection, Botox...the list goes on and on. But a few days ago my sister told me about an herb that Dr Oz talked about ( I know Dr Oz???, I was skeptical too) I tried it and the first ONE I took relieved the terrible tension in the muscles in my head, neck and shoulders by 80%. Now just days after I am 95% better. I still have some joint discomfort but the inflammation causing the horrible soreness it almost gone. Hopefully I will be able to find something that helps that so I can return to work. But please try this herb it was a miracle for me!!! ZYFLAMEND by NewChapter. I am NOT getting anything for writing this. I was so disappointed when I came on line to find help but found only others suffering like me. Just give it a try!!!

nettleton44

Mar 24, 2012

To: mommy52

Many people have posted about the pain after cervical fusions. Though there are many causes and I see the doctors agree, muscle spasms, joint irritation above and below the fusion etc...
I have had terrible chronic pain from 2007 until 3 days ago. I tried ever imaginable way to get rid of it from massage, acupuncture, cupping, therapy massage, pain pills ( strong doses) steroid injection, Botox...the list goes on and on. But a few days ago my sister told me about an herb that Dr Oz talked about ( I know Dr Oz???, I was skeptical too) I tried it and the first ONE I took relieved the terrible tension in the muscles in my head, neck and shoulders by 80%. Now just days after I am 95% better. I still have some joint discomfort but the inflammation causing the horrible soreness it almost gone. Hopefully I will be able to find something that helps that so I can return to work. But please try this herb it was a miracle for me!!! ZYFLAMEND by NewChapter. I am NOT getting anything for writing this. I was so disappointed when I came on line to find help but found only others suffering like me. Just give it a try!!!

nettleton44

Mar 24, 2012

To: wondering2227

Many people have posted about the pain after cervical fusions. Though there are many causes and I see the doctors agree, muscle spasms, joint irritation above and below the fusion etc...
I have had terrible chronic pain from 2007 until 3 days ago. I tried ever imaginable way to get rid of it from massage, acupuncture, cupping, therapy massage, pain pills ( strong doses) steroid injection, Botox...the list goes on and on. But a few days ago my sister told me about an herb that Dr Oz talked about ( I know Dr Oz???, I was skeptical too) I tried it and the first ONE I took relieved the terrible tension in the muscles in my head, neck and shoulders by 80%. Now just days after I am 95% better. I still have some joint discomfort but the inflammation causing the horrible soreness it almost gone. Hopefully I will be able to find something that helps that so I can return to work. But please try this herb it was a miracle for me!!! ZYFLAMEND by NewChapter. I am NOT getting anything for writing this. I was so disappointed when I came on line to find help but found only others suffering like me. Just give it a try!!!

nettleton44

Mar 24, 2012

To: pb14

Blue Cross paid for the one in CO or Germany?

nettleton44

Mar 24, 2012

To: vrob

Do you know if anyone who had a fusion who went back to this hospital to have it taken out and this operation performed? I had a fusion and I wish I had done what you did. I was very active sports wise and now not able..very depressed.

nettleton44

Mar 24, 2012

To: soreandsleepy

If you are denied and then need to appeal GET A LAWYER!!!! I went through the exact same thing with Aetna. I was not aware that I needed an attorney so I sent in the "appeal" on my own, thinking how can they deny me. Well they did. ANd since I had sent in the appeal they said no again. Then when I was told I needed an attorney he said you should have called me before, there is little I can do now. NIGHTMARE!! Out of work, lost large income and after STD they denied LTD. Get LAWYER right away!!

nettleton44

Mar 24, 2012

To: Smiley2000

Yes the fusions "work" but if there is an operation done in Germany that allows you to keep your flexibility ( which I miss terrribly) we should be able to have it in the USA!!! It's a crime.

nettleton44

Mar 24, 2012

To: cindylee42

Many people have posted about the pain after cervical fusions. Though there are many causes and I see the doctors agree, muscle spasms, joint irritation above and below the fusion etc...
I have had terrible chronic pain from 2007 until 3 days ago. I tried ever imaginable way to get rid of it from massage, acupuncture, cupping, therapy massage, pain pills ( strong doses) steroid injection, Botox...the list goes on and on. But a few days ago my sister told me about an herb that Dr Oz talked about ( I know Dr Oz???, I was skeptical too) I tried it and the first ONE I took relieved the terrible tension in the muscles in my head, neck and shoulders by 80%. Now just days after I am 95% better. I still have some joint discomfort but the inflammation causing the horrible soreness it almost gone. Hopefully I will be able to find something that helps that so I can return to work. But please try this herb it was a miracle for me!!! ZYFLAMEND by NewChapter. I am NOT getting anything for writing this. I was so disappointed when I came on line to find help but found only others suffering like me. Just give it a try!!!
Miracle...

nettleton44

Mar 24, 2012

To: mizzbryce

Steriods never worked for me, even after 3 times. Many people have posted about the pain after cervical fusions. Though there are many causes and I see the doctors agree, muscle spasms, joint irritation above and below the fusion etc...
I have had terrible chronic pain from 2007 until 3 days ago. I tried ever imaginable way to get rid of it from massage, acupuncture, cupping, therapy massage, pain pills ( strong doses) steroid injection, Botox...the list goes on and on. But a few days ago my sister told me about an herb that Dr Oz talked about ( I know Dr Oz???, I was skeptical too) I tried it and the first ONE I took relieved the terrible tension in the muscles in my head, neck and shoulders by 80%. Now just days after I am 95% better. I still have some joint discomfort but the inflammation causing the horrible soreness it almost gone. Hopefully I will be able to find something that helps that so I can return to work. But please try this herb it was a miracle for me!!! ZYFLAMEND by NewChapter. I am NOT getting anything for writing this. I was so disappointed when I came on line to find help but found only others suffering like me. Just give it a try!!!

neck001

Mar 25, 2012

To: vrob

Hi,
I am a 52 year old female and I am also considering a 3 level ADR. I have been researching Dr. Ritter-Lang and have sent my MRI and X-rays to him and I am currently waiting to hear back from him. My biggest fear is getting after care once I am back home, in CA. Everything I hear and read indicates how US doctors won't touch you once you have gone abroad for surgery,was this your expierince? Did you have to have physical therapy once you were back home? And if so, who did you go to to get this prescribed?

vrob

Mar 25, 2012

To: nettleton44

I do not know anyone personally who has had their fusion "undone" and had an artificial disc put in, but that does not mean it isn't possible-it never hurts to ask! I would check with someone at Stenum in Germany (or wherever else you may have found that performs this procedure). The movement that could be regained would definitely be worth it!

vrob

Mar 25, 2012

To: neck001

Yes-I am sad to say that my neurologists here in the US did not want to see me after the surgery since it was not performed by them here. I went to my primary care physician (with all of my orders that were sent back here with me from Stenum Hospital) and she was able to prescribe comparable meds that they had sent me orders for and also set me up for physical therapy. (My physical therapist was quite amazed by the surgery and the movement I had in my neck, and all I really needed to work on was strengthening exercises.) I am very thankful that I have not had to seek help for anything regarding my neck since my surgery which was almost 3 years ago now. I pray that that continues to be the case, but I was able to find an orthopedic doc willing to take an X-ray for me for follow up (I think it was @ 1 year?) later on who was also very impressed by the ADRs. He was/is also willing to be available to me should a need arise. I truly believe that there are many doctors here that would love to be able to do the procedure, but sadly, it is not in their hands. Good Luck to you-and Please keep us all posted!!

anniepinky

Apr 02, 2012

To: vrob

do they do this in bris

anniepinky

Apr 02, 2012

To: vrob

do they do this in bris

vrob

Apr 02, 2012

To: anniepinky

I am sorry but I am not sure what you are asking?

Pen2012

Apr 04, 2012

To: Smiley2000

Hope you are now fully recovered. I too have what seems like an identical issue and advised so far to have the Cervical Disc Decompression on same discs but now going for a second opinion down in Southampton at the end of the month.
Good luck in Australia
From an ex South African

golfa40

Apr 04, 2012

To: hurt4surtin939

hi ,my name id todd,wondering where you had the surgery and what other coditionds did you have ? were your foramina cleaned out and bone spurs taken care of? please e-mail me for i am going to clavel april 22nd 2012

bcarch

Apr 12, 2012

To: golfa40

this is a general reply and question. i recently need to make a decision about neck surgery. so i just started researching options and notice this column. many of these examples are about fusions posted in 2010. i do not understand why disc replacement isnt more known and available now. i talked to a surgeon in st. louis and seems like that is the only way to go and confirms all the bad side effects from fusion. did i just happen to find such a rare surgeon? or maybe most surgeons too old/lazy to learn new ways. i am hoping not to be a ginny pig on a new procedure either.

10s

Apr 13, 2012

To: nettleton44

Where did you find this herb? i must have missed this...I am looking into disc replacement for my neck...any thoughts on where to go in the states...I am in virginia

rayna0758

Apr 17, 2012

To: vrob

Why did you Go to a Foreign Country To have this Done When they are Doing it here?? I am have multiple discs replaced, by the Doctor that pioneered the procedure here in the US??

vrob

Apr 17, 2012

To: rayna0758

There wasn't anywhere in the US that would do a 3 level replacement (I was told) when I needed mine taken care of. They would only do one level and the level above and below that level had to be in good condition. It may have been possible to get in to a "study" in a research facility, but I did not have the time to wait for that. Where did you have your surgery done and what kind of implants did you have?

ridewpride54

Apr 24, 2012

Has anyone had muscle spasms ,its been ten days sense I my anterior cervical diskectemy & fusion done c5 c6. follow up w/ my neurosurgery Friday. was doin ok until the muscle spasm started up .havent stop yet.. its unbearable..

Idonotlikecomputers

Apr 27, 2012

To: Smiley2000

I had the same done for my neck in April of 2010 and was good for a few months, but the pain never really completely went away. Now it is worse or at least as bad as it was when it was at it's worse. It is difficult to make it through each day. the pain radiating from my neck and up through my head and arms has been unbearable lately. I take Ultracet, 2 tablets every 6 hours and it it still unbearable. I am terrified because I know I can not live like this. My work and quality of life is suffering a great deal lately. I am 51 but I never thought I would be feeling this bad this early. I have an appointment on the 22nd of May and I just pray there is something they can do that is not invasive. I am afraid of another surgery. I am still paying on the last. And feel very much taken advantage of, as it seems the statistics are not good for any type of spinal surgery.

Wiland

May 08, 2012

I had a TDR on L4L5 here in U.S. at Christiana care newark Delaware, and it was very successful. The surgery was done on the 23rd of Nov 2011 and as am writing this, i have not taking any pain medication for the past 2 weeks and doing very well, thanks to almighty God and to the doctor (Ali Kalamchi). People do not need to go to Germany any more there are doctors here who are very good! I wish everyone well.

vrob

May 09, 2012

To: Wiland

That is GREAT news-and I am glad you are doing so well! Do you know if this doctor/facility will replace more than one level and if they also do cervical disc replacements? Back when I had mine done, there wasn't anyone in the US that would do multi-level disc replacements. Also-what kind of ADR did you have put it? (Just wondering if they are using the M-6 here now?)
Thanks!

dj_27981

21 hours

To: 10s

I had 2 discs replaced on April 26, of this year at the hospital in Lumberton, NC. Went in Thursday for the surgery and was home around 1ish on Friday. I believe they replaced C5-C6, and C6-C7. One of the discs was completely compressed, had bone spurs which were pushing on my spine, which was causing pain, burning, and numbness in my right arm and shoulder area. The other one was starting to do the same, so the doctor fixed it at the same time. Put in a plastic disc and had enough bone from the spurs to fix the other one. It will be 5 weeks this Thursday. When I woke up from the surgery, the pain was gone from my shoulder, arm, etc. The worst part of the surgery, was the pain in my throat after the procedure where they move everything to one side so they can get to the spinal column. The only problem I have now is some discomfort in my shoulders at the end of the day. Have to wear a soft collar during the day, a hard collar when riding in a car, and a bone stimulater for 4 hours every day for 6 months because I have osteopenia. Would do it again.