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Spinal Surgery: What should I expect?

Spine Health | Last Active: Jan 20, 2023 | Replies (40)

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@shenriq

Most of the questions you're asking are things I would expect would be rightly addressed with your surgeon. Having had the exact cervical spine surgery you've mentioned, it is my opinion that the "fix" would happen at the same time. Multiple surgeries seems excessive and needlessly jeopardize you, besides contending with two surgeries and healing timelines. Get a copy of your MRI - and have two other consults with a surgeon outside of the practice you're working with, something you should schedule. You can get referrals from your insurance provider for at least 2 other surgeons opinions, take your MRI and go with all your questions written down. It would be thoughtful to ask each of the physicians you confer with, to give you his/her recommendation, never sharing what the previous Dr has said. You are entitled to have multiple second opinions, that are usually covered by your insurance provider.
Here's hoping you've been working on physical therapy and pain management, before reaching a surgical decision.
I empathize with your discomfort and justifiable concerns, but understand you must exhaust all your pre-surgical options, as I mentioned, before going under the knife.
It will be 5 years since I had my surgery and if you want me to weigh in on anything related to your decision process, don't hesitate to ask.
PS
When you hear the Drs talk about surgical options, it's scary and uncomfortable, so do take a friend -- and have them take notes.
Best of luck and trust your surgeon!!!

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Replies to "Most of the questions you're asking are things I would expect would be rightly addressed with..."

@marield65
Shenriq I really like your message and I will do that. You seem to understand quite well what I am going through and your message is very on point.
You don’t know how much I appreciate it.
Thank you
Marield65