the way it seems is either those people that posted on here before they got their surgery ( which was some time ago ) either feel too good like you mentioned because they are doing well OR they are doing worse!! which could in worst cases mean surgery fail and death. not to be negative but these surgeries are very serious and need time to think about than to just take advice from anyone that has had surgery and is able to post back about it. ( risk risk risk)

My first fusion gave me 15+ years of quality active and productive living. My 2nd fusion had some problems but once fixed I had a further 15 years active and quality living. My 3rd fusion has not gone so well and the reason I finally had it some 6 years after it was first suggested was because I was forced to resign from work after I suffered severe compression fractures in my thoracic region. They said I would be off work for at least 2 years to recover and we opted to get all my spine problems fixed in that time span. For me, I have a problematic crumbling spine. I have no regrets and consider my surgeons have done the best they could, I'm having to consider further fusion to it this year and I genuinely believe it will help resolve my issues.

Thanks for responding., Pamela. You are pretty brave and stoic to go through 3 fusion surgeries. What was the first one done for? Have you had any issues with scar tissue? Do you feel the "crumbling spine" issue is due to the effect of the fusions on the other vertebrae? You have a great attitude in being grateful that they gave you 30 years of an active, full life vs dwelling on the drawbacks. I may be facing this surgery myself if my pain is proven to be discogenic, but it seems like ive got a complex situation.

Hi Diane, the crumbling isn't from the fusions, I've just got crappy bone health and break them easily. My nana was the same, she had the very first hip replacement done here in our city. I don't remember her being in hospital but do remember going with my mum for the many follow up visits. Sadly she broke it a number of times in her life. If you are open to it, can you share what the complex situation is?