I currently have been diagnosed (with MRI's and different surgeons) with stenosis in the c3-c7 areas of my spine along with bone spurs close to c3. My symptoms are profound weakness in my leaft arem and shoulder, although no pain or tingling/numbness.

I have on surgeon recommending an ACDF in the 3 levels between c3 and c7, while the other surgeon is recommending a Cervical Laminoplasty (sighting concerns with risks in speech and swallowing) for the same area. The second surgeon stated ACDF is a the best answer for two level replacements but a three level is a tipping point that could go either way. Because of the stenosis VS disk problems he strongly suggests going posterior.

Has anyone been in the same dilemma? what did you do? Would you do it again?

Welcome to NT

I have some stenosis in my C-spine. It's no fun, but it's not that bad thesedays.

I would like to know, when and what caused it, your age, what you're tried, from conservative to invasive.

Seems like you have 2 opinions. That's a problem. Don't do anything till you fully understand and know that's what you have and need.

The vocal and swallowing, yeah, I know what you're talking about there. Sometimes they can rehab through speech therapists and occupational therapist to correct or manage that side effect. sometimes nothing helps that either. weigh the risks here. they're real. can't reverse surgery to presurgery status.

There's so much information here, I'll get you started with the spinal disorder and back forum. http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/forum22.html

We're here for you. Just share some more details so we can better understand your needs.

I have NO idea what this is about BUT I can state that it makes completel sense. Absolutely find everything out FIRST.

A friend of mine had a tumorous growth in his throat and neck and up behind his eye. He opted for surgery for obvious reasons to remove it because it would cause some problems.

He knew that there was a risk to facial nerve damage from the surgery and he got a second and a third opinion.

Eventually he settled for surgery and then therapy afterwards to help speak properly. I am happy to say he has healed up quite a bit now after a couple of years but it was invasive.

Weigh everything that matters to you first and then make a decison that YOU feel is best for YOU and you alone.

First I want to welcome you to Neuro Talk!!

I have lumbar problems. A year and half ago I had my fifth surgery. Stenosis was something that was a big factor. I know it is nothing like the neck however, yes I would do it all over again. I have pain relief in my legs that I have not felt for decades.

Hopefully things will go well for you...if you have a doc you trust as I did, I had no fear. My second surgery I had to learn to walk again which the doc didn't think I would do....I surprised him. So I did know all the problems and fears there were to be had...

Hello and welcome to NeuroTalk. Happy to see you have come to be with us. Just let us know if we can be of any help. There are great number of fellow members here to assist as possible.

Again welcome, looking forward to seeing you around.

Darlene