Has anyone had C5-C7 fused and then had hardware removed?

Posted by crystalpoole644 @crystalpoole644, 5 days ago

My C5 to my C7 is fused however, I am experiencing and have been experiencing severe pain on the left side of my neck down into my left shoulder blade and down into my left arm. Does anyone know would it be beneficial to have the hardware removed and if that would eliminate some, if not all of my extreme pain in that region. ?

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mrmacabre | @mrmacabre | 4 days ago

I've have fusion procedures done at the C5-C6 level, and 18 months later at the C7-T1 level. When the surgeon did the second one he removed the plate and screws from the first surgery because the joint was completely fused and was no longer necessary. I still have the plate and screws from the second surgery in my neck with no complications, and it's been 8 years.
I don't think removing the hardware will make a difference, unless it wasn't aligned properly?

livininthestix | @livininthestix | 4 hours ago

I have the same areas of pain after c5-c6 single level fusion. I have wondered if they can take out the hardware as I feel its causing problems. I have advanced arthrosis of the facet c7-t1 now and huge anterior osteophytes above the fusion plate. The pain drives me nuts and haven't found relief yet. THC/CBD creams help a little. Hot tubs, stretching the best i can help as well. I feel for you. Hopefully it'll get better for you soon.