2 questions

[Guest guest]

More questions to those that have had revision surgery.

I am currently fused from T4 - L4 and have very severe DDD in L4/5 and L5/S1. How much more flexibility will I lose? And I don't mean immediately after surgery but once I have healed. Will it will a slight difference or a noticeable difference?

My doctors biggest concern seemed to be that I was "too young" for surgery. I am 44. He said it wouldn't make that much difference physically to wait until I am 50. However, it might make a big difference to us financially. Right now I have insurance, at 50 I may not. Do you think 44 is too young for revision surgery?

Peggy

[ ] Re: surgery-Peggy

Peggy,I am not sure why you seem so surprised that the surgery proposed for you is so big. It is pretty much what we all have been undergoing here. A few folks seem to end up with a posterior only approach...but most of us have undergone the anterior/posterior procedure which, as I read it, offers the greatest support...often necessary when they go all the way to the sacrum. I can't think of one person who has undergone revision surgery for flatback that hasn't had some or all of the old Harrington rod removed. It's just got to go!Anyway, the enormity of the surgery is exactly why your are well advised to make sure you are ready for the surgery and have picked your doctor/hospital with care.I know you are hoping that working from home improves your pain level. It would be nice if it did....at least then you might be able to get to a more supported situation with your family before you move ahead. I will wait to hear what you decide before I put your date on the calendar. (I am assuming that DrReeg is proposing to do this surgery as a one day event since you only stated one date.)Take Care, Cam