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I’ve had all my hardware removed after T2-T10 fusion. Ask me anything.

Spine Health | Last Active: Aug 7 11:47pm | Replies (27)
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@anoyymous123

Too late now but removing 3 spinal spacers from previous operations most likely led to spinal instability and shift of vertabrea Be very cautious if surgeon suggests this

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Replies to "Too late now but removing 3 spinal spacers from previous operations most likely led to spinal..."
Jennifer, Volunteer Mentor | @jenniferhunter | Apr 5 3:00pm

@anoyymous123 I understand what you are saying. If hardware is placed externally on the spine, it does restrict spine movement. If it is removed and there has not been a spinal fusion, removing that hardware essentially allows the spine to be able to move again, and that may not be a good thing. When hardware is removed after a fusion has healed, the fused bone would maintain the support of the spine, and removal of the hardware may not make any difference as far as spinal stability is concerned. A spine with an extensive fusion or big deformity corrective surgery may need support from the hardware to remain in place. That of course is a decision between the surgeon and the patient.

I do appreciate your comments, and that is why we as patients should learn as much as we can about our condition and surgical decisions and ask lots of questions.

Jennifer

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