Maryjane,
As I had mentioned previously, i had L4-5 fusion(Rods & Screws) done during the same surgery as laminectomy. My pain has continued; but my vertebrae had been crushing a major nerve between the two levels. The surgeon said he had never seen "such an angry red nerve before". If I had not had the fusion, I'm afraid the nerve would have been severed sooooo, while I still have pain; it would have been worse had I not had the fusion done.

As Ginny said.....sometimes they take away the pain; but often fusion is done because the vetebrae are coming down (sometimes a domino effect..more than one or two); but without the surgery, there can be a risk of additional damage.

It's always good to get as much input as possible. Both of us are happy we can be of help in any way.


Gerry