It is hard. I was in a car accident, a complete quadriplegic with traction and 2 burst fractures C5C6. Because of the traction I was unable to seek second or third opinions. I was 17. The neurosurgeons were cruel in discussing my options. I think they said that with surgery I had a 25% chance of death, a 25% chance of remaining a quadriplegic, a 50% chance of getting “some “ function back. They told me this without emotion and in quite a hurried manner, as if I was wasting their time. I wanted a second opinion, another surgeon, and to be out of that hospital. But that wasn’t an option. I had the surgery, and it was a success for the most part. Regained motor and sensory function below c7. I have Central cord syndrome and no use of the small muscle in my hands.

If you don’t like the manner in which information is presented, be happy to have the option of ‘doctor shopping’ until you find a surgeon you feel comfortable with. Some say it only requires a surgeon to be skillful in the operating room, I think if he/she can’t be relatable as a human being … well I don’t want them operating on me.

Of course you may get the same prognosis, but presentation is an important part of any job.