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What are people's experiences with spinal fusion surgery?
Spine Health | Last Active: Jun 4 6:30pm | Replies (263)Comment receiving replies
Thank you, Jennifer. I was supposed to have already had the surgery. Unfortunately, my healthcare Market plan insurance company has twice denied the prior authorization request. This is an emergent status and twice a tentative-penciled in surgery date had to be canceled. I'm learning all I can from others about what is before me here. I have been told by two spine surgeon specialists from the start that if this is delayed too long they may be unable to perform it as originally planned. I'm doing okay with my mindset and outlook but it has been 4 weeks since my injury and my spine already had complications due to ankylosing spondylitis. I'm hoping for the best. Thank you for reaching out. Sincerely, Lola
Replies to "Thank you, Jennifer. I was supposed to have already had the surgery. Unfortunately, my healthcare Market..."
@italialola3 Lola, It sounds like the insurance company is playing games. You may want to make some calls to your insurance company and talk to supervisors there. Tell then how urgent your situation is and that you don't want further permanent damage because you're not being helped in a timely fashion. If they think it will get more complicated and expensive if you wait, they may authorize it. I don't know if this is a work comp situation, but often those can be long and drawn out while the insurance doesn't want to pay and hopes that you give up. I'm sorry you have this situation. It's not fair, but you need to speak up and keep calling until you get what you need. They need to hear from you what your surgeon explained. If you have an attorney involved, it would be worth calling them.
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What does your MRI report say? I have never had any traumatic injuries to my spine. My rheumatologist sees no evidence of ankylosing spondylitis but I have another variety of spondylitis. According to my MRI reports --- I can't believe all the damage that has been done to my spine. I'm not so sure surgery will help my spine if the chronic inflammation hasn't been stopped.
I have been "penciled in" for surgery several times. Per my request, the times have been erased. I'm worried that surgery will make things worse. My neurosurgeon says not all of my spine problems will be addressed and only the worst levels will be fused. I guess some areas won't be touched but it depends on what the surgeon sees when she gets in there.