Help ... I need surgery at C3

[imajoker2]

Quick history.  Traffic accident herniated disk at C3&C4.  I have tried conservative treatment for a year.  Last MRI and melogram (2/03) shows injury actually worse with spinal cord deformity.  My nuerosurgeon now recommends surgery and states that this is somewhat of a rare injury and has only performed maybe 10 of these in the last 40 years of practice.

My question:  I want a second opinion with someone who performs this procedure with a little more regularity.  I understand the reports and know I need the surgery, but how can I find a surgeon that is experienced in the upper cervical spine without
going to doctor after doctor asking "how many of these have you done?"  I have asked for referrals from my family doctor but so far I haven't received any suggestions.  I need to know I am in good hands in order for me to feel good about this surgery.

Thank you and any help and/or recommendations would be appreciated.

[Esteban]

I have had the distectomy with fusion at C-3 & 4 about 3 years ago.My surgeon, in S.C., also said it was unusual as most were at lower levels in the neck. I had an injury to my neck 30 years earlier, the degeneration damaged the area & I had major compression of the spinal cord, plus seizures, weakness, etc.There was also very slight damage to the cord as well.
  I have been more than pleased with the outcome.The horrible pain & other problems are about 85% gone. As stated above, find a highly recommended surgeon, even if it means traveling. I " fired" the first because of his & the staff's hateful attitude & overall lack of concern.

[imajoker2]

Thank you very much for the information.  I forgot to mention that I live in Ohio, have been considering the Cleveland Clinic,
but again I had no idea what Doctors to ask for.  Again thank you.

[CCF-Neuro-M.D.-JT]

Your best bet would be to go to an academic center where there are spine specialists (either neurosurgeons or orthopedic docs).  Depending on where you go, these surgeons tend to be well published and should have considerable experience in spine surgeries of this type.  Many academic centers also have websites or places where you can get information about your surgeon either online or in brochures to see where they came from, what they've published, and what experience they've had.  If you are willing to travel, Dr. Benzel here at the Clinic is a fantastic neurosurgeon/spine specialist who is well respected in his field and is actually a very kind physician.  Dr. Kalfas is a also a great spine specialist.  Best of luck.