Here is an update on my situation. I've saw another neurosurgeon in June for a second opinion. He did a flexion and extension xray as well as straight on for scoliosis. His interpretation of the xrays and previous MRI's was instability of L2/3 mainly, possibly some in L3/4. He is suggesting L2/3 LIF.
I saw him again yesterday, went over the xray's & MRI's and where my pain is. I have pain in the L2/3 but also below. We talked about other imaging, and he is ordering a Spect CT, lumbar MRI, and bone density. Has anyone had the Spect CT done? It apparently shows areas of bone inflammation / pain on the scan and can help to determine areas needing treatment / surgery.
Not sure how fast those will get done, but hopefully soon. I'm keeping as active as possible with walking (1.5-2.5 miles daily), some core exercises as much as I can tolerate. But things are progressing with feet, calve, thigh, lower groin tingling as well as the pain/discomfort in the lumbar region for L2-5. I'm to the point of needing at least the L2/3 surgery, but am concerned about the ones below too. The imaging should help decide that? I'm comfortable with the neurosurgeon, his knowledge, experience, and concern. That's something that I didn't feel with the first two.
So the main thing for this posting is asking about Spect CT, who has had it and did it help with your situation and deciding surgery?