Looks like I will be going in for another surgery in a little over a week. Currently fused c3-C7. Nuero surgeon confirmed a failed fusion at c5-6 with a high grade stenosis. This is an old X-ray but for some reason my old surgeon use a swing arm at this level? Not sure how this could possibility create a strong fusion?! anyway also progressive degeneration and stenosis at c2 and T2. So the plan will be to fix 5/6 and fuse three more levels leaving me fused from C2-t2. I was told that fusing at the C1 and t2 create a stronger structure for the fusion and less likely to have to go in for another neck surgery (this will be my 4th). Not that I have much mobility now, I am extremely concerned about this as well as quality of life. Any one have feedback?

What is your surgical plan? Is your upcoming surgery going in through the front, the back, or both?

Back- the last surgeries have been through the front. rods and screws

Have you gotten another opinion? The swing arm is very unusual. I had not seen it before. I hate the thought: of more fusion for you. Once C1-2 is fused, mobility does become an issue. Is he doing this to steady the bracket? Or is it because it is herniated? My Bracket is from C3-7. T1-2-3 are iffy for my future too. I will fight tooth claw and nail not to have any more done. Any way to re-do what you already have with a solid piece for stability? I am curious as to what your doctor is thinking. I sure hope you find a good solution, these back issues are no fun at all. ginnie

Ginnie - he is my second opinion I am not sure why my prior NS did this swing arm other than stating there was some boney bridging at this level? but this is the level that failed. Anyway moving forward in addition to fixing this failed fusion level, the reason we are doing C2 is because of the progressive degeneration in just a years time, it is herniated with moderate stenosis. He said we could leave it but I would be back in another year. T1 has also started to bulge so again same reason as above. My NS stated the C2- T2 is the end stage to a bad neck stating C1 is robust and T2 is supported by the rib cage (plus C2, T1 levels are bad). The plan is through the back connective rods and screws all the way down. If I didn't have to already have to have surgery to fixed the failed level I certainly wouldn't be doing this but based on the MRI I would rather do this now verses having to go in again in another year. Hoping his is my last neck surgery!

So very sorry you have to go through so much. I am scared for the same reasons as you are. I too have some degenerative changes since my last fusion two years ago. I hope your surgery corrects all that needs to be done. I hope too that you receive enough pain meds after the surgery. I will pray for your recovery. Please let me know when you are home. Wish there was something I could do for you. ginnie

Thank you for caring Ginnie!
I am sorry you may be facing the same surgery! How is your quality of life/ pain level now?

For the most part, my pain is OK. I do have some meds for when it gets bad. I still can drive, but if I have any more surgery, I won't be able to do that or turn around. That is what bothers me. I can't see taking a bus all over the place. My C1-2 are holding steady, but t 1-2-3 can give me some real trouble.
I take acupuncture on a regular basis and try not to over do any kind of activity. Yard work, has to be done sitting on my butt, and not bending over looking down. I am sure you have issues with looking up and down too.

It isn't fun to have these back issues. My work is what led to this reversal of the spine. For me, this last surgery was terribly painful. It took me a good year to feel better. I am two years out now, and seem to be doing OK for now.
I hope your surgery goes OK. I really feel for you, as these surgeries are very hard on a person, both emotionally and physically. Do you have good support at home?
Keep in touch, and let me know how it goes. ginnie