Scoliosis - Introduce yourself and meet others

My surgeon has recommended spinal reconstruction surgery to correct scoliosis, kyphosis, and spondylolisthesis, with fusion of T1 through S1. I'm 67 and scared to death. Has anyone else faced a similar situation? Outcomes, suggestions appreciated.

I was fused in May, T4 through S1. It’s a long recovery but so far going well. I was also terrified, but I’m glad I did it. I’m 58.

I had a spinal fusion (T2-L2) in 1977, at the age of 19. Definitely a different scenario and medicine has advanced greatly since then, but I was wanted to state that I have not had any issues with the fusion. Physical therapy post-op and throughout my life has been a great factor to my successful outcome.

I can understand your concern but the below post in certainly encouraging. I I to have scoliosis kyphosis and spondylosis, these options have not been presented it to me but it certainly gives me something to think about. I just had a C5-6 fusion and the hardware from the 6-7 -7 removed and my pain is worse. I am also fused at the lumbar 4-5, 5 Si and did great but now have bulging discs above that. Do you mind me asking you where you would have this done? I hope you’re able to decide what to do sometimes I think not knowing what to do is the worst part. I amwishing you well and look forward to seeing what you do. Oh by the way I’m just a year older than you so I’m 68 and in good health other than my spine.

Thank you for your encouraging story. I'm glad things are going well for you! Have you noticed any major changes to your lifestyle since the surgery?

Hello, leigh17. Thank you for posting. I had been looking at Mayo Jacksonville, but they were not accepting any new spine patients! So I have been working with a surgeon in New York City, said to be the best place to go for spinal reconstruction surgery. My dilemma is: Will I be better or worse after having this surgery? I just don't know.

Yes I forgot but they aren’t taking any new spinal patients at Mayo. I’m glad that you’re working with someone with a fabulous reputation and that you feel comfortable with, as comfortable as you can in this type of situation. I can certainly understand how you feel I know I would probably be feeling the same way. I wish I could give you more encouragement I think in this type of situation and being in that much pain I would probably go ahead but it’s easier said than done. Have you checked any of his past patients for their reviews?

My surgery was done at Mayo- Rochester MN.

My Dr is extremely conservative and has just recently lifted some of the restrictions. I’m not allowed to bend or twist until the one year mark. The short answer is yes, however part of that is due to restrictions that will be lifted.

I’m hoping to return to road biking(pedal) this summer and downhill skiing next season. As of now I’ve been mainly walking and snow showing. I’m able to do both with no pain and I would have had pain before. I can easily do both for more than 3 miles.

Daily things are difficult because I’m not allowed to bend forward. That will change in May.

I’m happy to share what ever you’d like to know. I had tons of questions too and couldn’t find anyone to ask.

Hello, nlback22, thank you for responding. Your fusion was very similar to what is proposed for me. I'm glad you are doing so well. If I had 19-year-old bones (oh, if only!), I don't think I would be as worried as I am now. Osteoporosis is a real game-changer! However, I am encouraged by your story.

Wow! I'm so impressed that you can already snow shoe 3 miles without pain! That's amazing! I'm curious as to how extensive your surgery was, and your age. I've read about the bending and twisting restrictions, and can only imagine how that would affect my daily life. But, as my conditions are degenerative, how bad might I be if I did not have surgery?
I'm so appreciative to have someone with a similar experience to communicate with...thank you!