C6-C7 Surgery: Metal ring vs cadaver bone? Metal Plate vs Hard Collar?

[Ouchmyneckhurts]

Neurosurgeon prefers to use a metal ring (least I think that's how he described it), and that he injects some bone filler?  Not sure of that either...I was so bummed about needing surgery that I wasn't using my best listening skills. He also mentioned that he inserts a metal plate in the neck instead of using a hard collar after surgery; Has anyone had this done before?  How uncomfortable is this, and does it limit your neck mobility?

I had this type of surgery 10 yrs. ago (C5&C6), where the doc used a cadaver bone,which he said is holding up great. (I named my cadaver bone George Burns, since he lived a hundred years I thought maybe that good mojo would hold to the cadaver bone, & so far so good!) He's giving me the choice as to which method I want done. I told him that since he's the expert I would go with his recommendation.  What I'd like to know is if anyone else had this type of surgery using a metal ring and a metal plate, and how that surgery went. I'd REALLY love to hear if someone had both procedures done; one with bone and a second surgery with metal...Doc says metal also has the benfit of having a 0% chance of passing on a disease from the donor bone.
Surgery is set for 2 weeks away, and I'd liked to be as informed as I can before we actually get to the cutting.

One more thing, since I had the previous surgery & they went in on the left side of my neck, due to probable scar tissue, he has to go in on the right side of my neck, which he says has complications, but complications that outway him going in over the old scar....Now I'm really scared.THANK YOU!

[Sramirez4]

Iv had both and my bone came from the pediactric area and im a 35 yr old. And i dont want to scare you but , they incision is on my rite side. When i was in surgery my nerves  hit my vocal chords  and i didnt talk the same i had a  different voice. Its better now but honestly im so uncomfortable. Id b lying if i ssid it gets better. At least you know ur not alone. God bless you

[Sramirez4]

Iv have both my bone i have

[crispy2007]

I had the c4 & c5 done 2 1/2 years ago wnd went with my own bone from my hip and a metal plate and six screws.  It worked out great, and really no discomfort in the neck at all.  But I will warn you that the hip took a long time to heal and I was on crutches and a walker for about 3-4 months.  i am now sitting here researching this and waiting to see my surgeon again for C7&C8, here we go again, no fun.  I wish you the best of luck. I really can't tell you about the cadadver bone, I know there is a bigger chance of rejection using that, so it kind of depends on if you want to take the chance or not.  Take care.
Crispy2007

[ChipChip1966]

I am having surgery July 14th C5-C6 and I am very cofused on which is better cadaver bone or my own bone can someone PLEASE HELP me with what they know or have gone through   THANK YOU DAWN

[Kikko]

I have had two surgeries on my cervical spine.  One was through the back of the neck (laminectomy) over 20 yrs ago.  Then about 3 yrs ago I had an anterior multilevel fusion C3 to 5.  My Dr. did use cadivar bone along with the plate.  I had to wear a hard collar for 6 weeks.  The results were good for about 1 1/2 yrs.  I now have problems but it is due to the old way the laminectomy was done.  Now there is no support for my neck except the muscles holding it as all the bones in the back of my spine were removed.  It is a very severe problem I now have. So, have faith in your doctor as he really does want the best results for you.  And be glad that they have perfected the anterior approach for cervical surgeries.  Good luck and I will say a prayer for you.     Kikko