Surgery? I am terrified...

[jrosecrans]

Have been told I need a double level fusion at c4/5 and c6/7.  I am scheduled for next week.  I just don't know about this....everything I am reading seems to suggest that this operation is really not that successful.  Most still have pain, and a huge percentage of people have worse pain/symptoms than prior to their surgery.  While I do have pain right now, and it isn't pleasant, at least I KNOW what it is.  I feel like I am deciding between pain I am familiar with and pain that I am not familiar with....make sense?  Hell, I'd rather just keep the pain I have and not have anyone cut me open.  I am also a singer and actor- all this stuff about sore throats and laryginal troubles has be scared out of me socks.  I am amazed at all I have read- the largest percentage of stories are not of good outcomes.  Why then, is this considered a "minimally invasive procedure" and done so often?  I am just terrified.  I understand that with my level of disc issues (both herniated and causing symptoms), I risk permanent damange to the nerve.  However, it seems, with everything I've read that this is the outcome most of the time anyway.   Help.  Does ANYONE have some hopeful news about this surgery?

[bev62]

I'm so happy for you. Not only will this buy you some more time, but if after trying a more  conservative therapy you still need surgery you will know that you tried everything else first. I wish you the best of luck.

[jrosecrans]

Well- I got another opinion today, and I am happy I did.  Went to an ortho surgeon who said that yes, I may need surgery, but felt it best to try some more conservative therapy first.  Has anyone had foraminal injections before?

[cat9841]

I had a fusion a year ago and although it was my lower back , and it took months to heal and for me to get on with life, my pain is gone and I feel much better. I can't tell you what to do but for me it saved my life and it was a good thing I did it, I got mylife back. good luck to you your in my prayers.
CAT

[bev62]

I have only looked into artifical disk, but I soon found that they don't do multi level or if you have DDD.  

[jrosecrans]

My pain tolerance is great- my husband calls me a freak...lol.  I guess it is just a matter of being properly prepared.  With my being a caregiver for my mother right now, if I can wait even a couple of months, this whole this will be so much easier.  

Has anyone had or looked into Lasic/Endo procedures?

Jean

[bev62]

My doctor told me about the samething as your doctor.  I stayed in the hospital over night with not very much pain.  The worst thing was being able to swallow.  I really had a hard time swallowing pills. It lasts a couple of months and gradually got better.  I never wore a collar at all.  The only thing with me is that the pain gradually got worse and has never got better.  Good luck to you and Michelle.