Hi Amanda
I just read your post and i am gutted for you, i had an L4-S1 done in Auckland nearly 2 years ago....i really feel for you and i am so amazed at your attitude towards this cockup, your amazing!, keep your chin up, the only thing i can suggest is the surgeon who did my back , he was fantastic and i hope it doesn't turn out to be the same guy, but if it isn't try giving him a call and see what he says, after all my research this guy was recommended to me by nurses and ex patients and anyone else i asked , they all the said the same thing, he's fantastic and the best in NZ...i had my fusion done in Auckland
you can read my story here if you want to know more about it...
http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/thread15857.html
this is the guy who worked on my back L4-S1 fusion with rods (he doesn't like the cage , reckons it's not as good and not as strong)
Michael J Barnes MBChB, FRACS
Spine Surgeon, Ph: 09-307 4281
call him and have a chat....i can't recommend him enough...
take care mate
Michael