Ken's Appt with Dr Akbarnia

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Hello all, This past January, Dr A proposed a surgical plan including XLIFs at L2-3,L3-4, L4-5 with PEEK cages, partial removal of the H-Rod and posterior decompression of L2-3 and L5-S1, with fusion into the pelvis. For a few reasons this surgery did not take place (patient references, insurance issues, etc) When I went to see Dr A this week, I brought updated MRI and Xrays and was expecting to be given a new surgery date for sometime in 2008.. instead, he suggested that I first try Cortizone shots for both possible theraputic and diagnostic reasons. He then went on to say that in an effort to do as little surgery as possible, perhaps he could only fuse 2 levels below the H-Rod and then if it did not bring relief go back in and fuse the remaining levels... but, the hopes would be to buy time and not do such a large surgery. He referenced the risks, and that diabetes

would have an impact on my ability to heal which would then increase the already high risks involved in this surgery. So, I am going to get the cortizone shots he prescribed (two separate shots at two levels, about two weeks apart). Thats all I have for now.. Hope everyone is doing well on their journey to wellness! Ken.

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