Hi, the truth will never be known. I had c3-c7. I had same diagnosis just about and balance off, dropping things, severe pain and leg foot pain. I have 3 cages in.
Prior I did have some constipation but always resolved itself. I never took laxatives. I researched my surgeon well. He was a neurosurgeon and a nerve specialist assisted. I spoke to his former patients as well. It was done at Beth Israel in Boston. I researched the anesthesiologist as well. Everything was a green light except it was during severe Covid. I tested negative prior to admission and negative at discharge and again 5 days later. I was in the spine icu and received great care.
I’m allergic to pain meds so was not opioid induced. I’ve always had my bladder take its time waking after anesthesia and usually get catherized but it comes back within hours.
My bowels just never did. It will be 4 years June. Yes, I get neck pain now again and turning while driving sometimes tight. I did PT for months after including water PT. I’ve had a few surgeries and this never happened. I’ve been seen by more doctors than you can imagine and I get the same answer. So, this is my life. I accept it because it could be worse. I have great days and very bad days but I push through.
I have accepted I’ll never know why. I’ll keep my colon as long as I can.
Joanne