Sinead, this is terribly sad and frustrating . I can imagine the feeling of walls crumbling all around you as one option after the next seems to fall thru.
Your consultant is sticking by your side tho, and I get a good feeling from this. He seems determined to see you and Paul thru.
It seems he's been very thorough in ruling out structural possibilities. Hopefully now the attention can be turned to these options, such as what Paul mentions.

Out of curiosity, is there ever mention of the pain pump?

How about in your neck of the woods, Karen?
Just curious.

Anyway, Sinead I'm glad you've been able to get out of the confines of the hospital for a bit. Also wanted to send out a big ((HUG)) to Paul for sticking by your side . You have wonderful people who will see you thru this, my friend. Keep focused on this aspect, rather then those idiots who say things like you need to exercise more - some people can be so clueless, I swear.

Not a day goes by without you in my prayers....

Rae