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My journey with a T11 to L4 spinal fusion - 40 degree scoliosis curve
Spine Health | Last Active: May 9 10:33am | Replies (217)Comment receiving replies
Interested in how you are doing now? I'm due for similar surgery T10-Pelvic floor this spring. I've had 3 previous surgeries to correct stenosis and scoliosis here in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
At the moment I cannot walk or stand for any length of time. I'm exercising daily as well as on the treadmill to keep moving. It's a little scary when the surgeon says success rate is approximately 60-70%. I would rather take the chance at surgery, I'm an active young 79 year old, than to keep going through all of this pain. I'm having severe pain from the back, to sides and abdominal area as if someone is tightening a wire around the area. Any advice would be appreciated.
Replies to "Interested in how you are doing now? I'm due for similar surgery T10-Pelvic floor this spring...."
@glassart you are doing a good thing in keeping active! I was in that place of pain daily. I had tried all of the conservative things. Surgery was my last resort. I was aware of the odds, but knew that I could not operate in that kind of pain for 5 more years, let alone 20 or 30. I had the support and encouragement from family and friends that they would support me. I also prayed about the details. It's not easy to be selected by Mayo and they were quick to accept my case and get surgery scheduled. I had a strange peace going into the surgery and at 6 months post surgery today - I have none of that pain. I went on my favorite trail yesterday and walked further yesterday than I did prior to my surgery. That felt amazing and I praise God for the gains! Wishing you all the best as you process through this. Blessings! Karen
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@glassart
Hi! Does your insurance cover you to come to the Mayo Clinic?
I know there are many wonderful surgeons and clinics around the world and I can only speak to my surgeon at the Phoenix Mayo Clinic. I am doing amazing. He completely fixed my spine and the only thing I’m dealing with now is scar tissue from the surgery. I had scoliosis and could not stand or sit for very long and I knew my life would end with nonstop pain, and in a wheelchair. That was what my deciding factor was for surgery.
I prayed about it and was led to the Phoenix Mayo Clinic.
I have seen people at all ages get surgery with different results because everyone has different health issues.
I will not sugarcoat the recovery. It is not easy.
But I would not do a single thing different if given the opportunity. I now have a future of almost pain-free life.
Please do not hesitate to reach out to me with questions. There are several others on this site that I’ve had recent surgeries like mine and I know they will step up and answer questions.
Wishing you the best, Sherry