Possible Lumbar Fusion in My Future
 

Hello. I am new to this forum. I am concerned about the possibility of a lumbar fusion in the near future. I have had four back surgeries (3 lumbar microdiscectomies and 1 cervical fusion). The cervical fusion has been a success. Still have some residual pain from time to time, but nothing like before the surgery. However, the lumbar spine has not been as successful with the microdiscectomies.

Had one in 2010 and two in 2011 (levels L3-L4, L4-L5, and L5-S1). The L3-L4 level has proven successful. The L5-S1 level was not a success and I am not sure about the L4-L5 level as I am currently experiencing bilateral sciatic pain with some sporadic tingling of left foot. I also have a sharp pain shooting from level of L5-S1 when even slightly bending from the waist and putting weight on left foot.

I am currently in PT. Have had one PT session which resulted in increased sciatic pain and pelvic pain near groin. Was unable to go to PT last week at all due to pain. I have alerted PT of the problem and called my GP. Was told to return to PT, but back off on intensity. I see GP on Thursday. She will reassess then. I am asking for your input on my situation. I have had epidurals in past at these levels, but not since the surgeries. I am worried about a fusion, as I don't see any other answer....if you call that an answer. I have been through much with my back and understand a lot of the medical terminology, as I was a radiology transcriptionist for 14 years. Any input would be appreciated. Thanks! :confused:

It sounds to me like you're a victim of the "Domino Effect." It seems to happen most of the time after spinal surgery. AFter the surgery, the levels above and/or below will fail due to taking on more of the load. :( Unfortunately doctors don't tell their patients that this will happen. They should, cause it causes more surgery -- much to their delight. :mad:

I've had 3 spinal surgeries, and if it were me, I'd never had another unless I was in danger of permanent nerve damage or my spinal cord was being impinged. Trouble is, you say you have bilateral sciatic pain so I must assume that your sciatic nerve is being impinged. I have permanent sciatic nerve damage, and it's NO picnic! :mad: How long has your pain been going on? Because nerve damage becomes permanent after about 18 months! :eek:

I hope you will get other opinions. Before undergoing ANY spinal surgery you should get at LEAST 2 other opinions from NeuroSURGEONS and find out what they think. Don't just go with what one doctor thinks. that's a big mistake!

Let us know what happens, will you? I'd be interested in finding out what the end result is. God bless and please take care. Hugs, Lee ;)

Thanks Leesa. I have been having the bilateral pain for about 6-8 months. My GP will probably order an MRI since my pain intensified after one session of PT. Then she will refer me back to neurosurgeon. So, in defense of my neuro, he has not mentioned the fusion yet. I just feel this is coming. Maybe I am borrowing trouble, but I cannot imagine another outcome. I have been thinking about getting another opinion. My neurosurgeon was like a savior when I was experiencing the horrible pain with my neck. I had the hardest time getting anyone to even order an MRI. When I finally got the MRI, it showed significant stenosis causing pressure on the spinal cord. My previous orthosurgeon who did my first back surgery would not even order the MRI because he said unless my arm was hanging uselessly by my side, he would not perform surgery on the cervical spine. Finally, an MRI was ordered by my ENT (go figure). After receiving the MRI, I made an appointment with a neurosurgeon who was recommended to me. He did my cervical fusion and finally I was out of pain. It is hard to think of going to another neurosurgeon because I had such a difficult time finding this one. He has been super. However, I realize another opinion may be needed. I just cannot imagine this pain going away with PT. Maybe that sounds negative, but I have done PT so many times before without any positive results. After I see my current surgeon for his assessment, I will make an appointment with another doctor for a second opinion (if my neuro recommends fusion).

Thanks again Leesa. I am so sorry about your permanent nerve damage. I hope you have established some sort of regimen that works to relieve some of your pain. If you are like me, one day without pain would be the best gift ever! :yahoo: Take care of yourself.:hug:

Hi NERVEWRACKED;

Im sorry your in pain. I had acdf in 7-2010 c4 thru c7 good results not perfect but good. Sorry no lumbar fusions but i have a family history of spinal problems. Have your heard of drx 9000 machine?? I have known a few people with great results who avoided lumbar fusion. The only problem is im not sure if its approved thru insurance yet and understand it can be expensive. Just a thought.

Don't wait!
 

Don't ignore your symptoms. I wish I didn't