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?

[michelleric]

I am having the exact same surgery as you next week, Jan 26. Double fusion for the same discs as you. I too, am terrified. I wish you luck as well as myself.

[bev62]

I'm glad to hear some success stories. I also had to same surgery as your having, but I can't say that mine was successful. I've been in constant pain since my surgery two years ago.  And I must say that my pain is very real and not blown out of proportion what so ever, as are most of the other people here in the same shape.  

I did alot of research before I had surgery and the success rate was very high.  I had to wait amost three years to have my surgery due to workers comp. So it's better not to prolong it. The surgery itself is not that bad. Get plenty of rest and don't push yourself.
Good luck.

[richmill1]

WashCarl said it perfectly..pretty routine..I am a 57 year old active male..got my life back
you will too

[WashingtonCarl]

Had the same surgery as your having. Like above, my pre surgery head trip was lots worse than what I really went through. Im right at a year out and feel pretty good, not perfect, but lots better than before the surgery. Most people who have success with the surgery dont hang out on the web talking about it...they get on with thier life,so alot of the bad you hear on these boards is blown out of proportion that way. Get it done, youll be glad you did

[jrosecrans]

I can't tell you how helpful you both have been.  Thank you SO much.  Blessings to both of you.  

[tanglewood]

I have not had the surgery, but have had a lot of pain in that area due to ddd, spinal stenosis, and severe arthritis. I also have fibromyalgia, low back pain, and other issues. My surgeon decided I was not a candidate for surgery because I have so many issues - he said he could operate and I might still have a lot of pain; no thanks! So, last week I had a spinal chord stimulator trial. I am still going through the trial and will have it removed on Thursday. After my trial is over I will have to wait three to four weeks (until I'm completely healed) before they can permanently implant the device. I not only got a lot of relief in my neck, back, etc. I also got relief from low back pain I was having. I have been amazed at the results. There are risks with this, too - but so far no problems. You might ask about this option? The company that made the neuro-stimulator being used on me is Medtronics. You might google them to get more info. Good luck.