Ortho wants fusion of C6 to C7 not replacement

Posted by catharty @catharty, 20 hours ago

Okay, 61 yr old, female, fairly active (like yoga & pilates) though haven't been able to do those things because my left arm goes numb if there is pressure on it, or it moves in a certain direction. No neck pain. X-rays and MRI definitely show a bulging disc more than likely from me fracturing my left shoulder in 2021 (ski accident), no bone spurs or other bone growth around that area. Anyway, my ortho is pretty adamant that I should have it fused and not replaced. Everything I've read, so far, states that fusion can cause issues with the other discs becoming compressed over time and needing to have to go back for more fusions. I've not heard as much about disc replacement. Both also seem to have metal screws/plates involved and I'm allergic to stainless steel (at least touching the outside of my skin). Any comments welcome.

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krispine | @krispine | 18 hours ago

Are they recommending titanium? I have 4 in my neck from C3-C7 (since 2021). Complete non-issue. Not even aware of them. I work out every day--do not seem to impair my activities.

mrmacabre | @mrmacabre | 17 hours ago

I have 2 titanium plates in my neck as well with no complications. In my case(s) they've used a piece of donor bone, first at the C5-C6 level, and 18 months later at the C7-T1 level. Both have completely fused, and the only issue is not being able to turn or tilt my head as far as I used to. I can still drive without any difficulty.