[suka]

Hi, My name is Susan and I am scheduled for a three level cervical fusion next week. I am terrified. I do not have any significant neurological deficits on evaluation by 4 different doctors (neurosurgeon, orthopedic surgeon, ortho/neuro surgeon, and physiatrist) but I have one level (I think it's C56) that looks like the cord is compressed. I have tingling in my left arm and hand (not fingers) that comes for a day and then goes for a week or more. I have some low level aching in the back of my head. I have a problem with my lumbar/sacral spine that developed four years after my original whiplash, but I have not done an MRI and don't know what it looks like.

I have read about Dr. Jho, both good and bad, and am not sure how to proceed, especially because no one seems to be able to replicate his technique (and because some of you seem to hate him). Everyone of the MDs has said that I will need a fusion, but that I do not need to do it ASAP. I have had a number of hits to the neck (whiplashes, etc). One surgeon is sure this is genetic; one is sure it is not. I would like to hear what others think who have been in a similar situation.

Thanks so much,
Susan