Thoracic fusion, now new problem, ideas please?
 

Hi, I had emergency surgery in 2004 for thoracic spinal compression at T11 & 12, followed by two level fusion with instrumentation in 2005. I also have DDD at all levels, my last MRI (about five years ago) showed some minor disc bulges in the lumbar & cervical discs. After years of trying to find good pain management & use of high doses of Fentanyl patches (plus ongoing bowel problems & removal of colon) my local health authority (in the UK) have finally found the funding for a Medtronic pain pump, I've just had unrelated gynae surgery & once recovered will be having the pump, all being well. My question is this, over the last week or so I've developed new pain in a different area of my spine, it's in the small of my back around waist level, right in the centre on the bone of the spine (just below the fusion) the skin feels hot & is extremely sore & tender in one spot, it's agony just to the touch. Any ideas what this could be, should I be worried enough to see my doctor? Many thanks.

You should get this checked by your doctor if only to give you piece of mind. Worry wont help your overall health - nor will pain. It could even be that this one spot in particular was put under pressure during your most recent surgery. With a history of spinal problems of course you will worry that it is yet another problem emerging. Libby



QUOTE=tiggi321;891771]Hi, I had emergency surgery in 2004 for thoracic spinal compression at T11 & 12, followed by two level fusion with instrumentation in 2005. I also have DDD at all levels, my last MRI (about five years ago) showed some minor disc bulges in the lumbar & cervical discs. After years of trying to find good pain management & use of high doses of Fentanyl patches (plus ongoing bowel problems & removal of colon) my local health authority (in the UK) have finally found the funding for a Medtronic pain pump, I've just had unrelated gynae surgery & once recovered will be having the pump, all being well. My question is this, over the last week or so I've developed new pain in a different area of my spine, it's in the small of my back around waist level, right in the centre on the bone of the spine (just below the fusion) the skin feels hot & is extremely sore & tender in one spot, it's agony just to the touch. Any ideas what this could be, should I be worried enough to see my doctor? Many thanks.[/QUOTE]

Give him a call.
 

At least give Doc a call. He'll tell you if you need to come in. I have had lower and neck/thoracic (8 level= discectomy) surgeries and I have to tel you my pain moves around. Especially where my kidney would be.

Good Luck.
m

I agree with ejwblibby:
You may have an issue with something from a previous surgery or something entirely unrelated. By all means, see your doc -- that's what s/he's for!

Doc

Hi Tiggi
 

Welcome to Neuro Talk. Anytime you have a painful spot, it is good to go in to get it checked. Worry isn't good. Infections can happen in anyone. You will feel alot better having it looked at. I wish you all the best. ginnie

I have to agree with all others about this painful spot. Hopefully it won't impede your upcoming pump surgery -- in fact, hopefully the pump with help it!

I had the trial for the pump, and i just wanted to say that the pump RELIEVED all my pain!!! For one whole day, I was PAIN FREE! It was wonderful! Unfortunately, I couldn't have the pump due to other problems and it broke my heart. :( But that's another story. LOL

I hope you'll keep us updated on your surgery and the pump implant. I'll be anxious to hear how it all goes, and the level of pain relief! So please let us know, ok?

God bless and take care of yourself. Hugs, Lee :wink: