@judyj56 Hi Judy. I wanted to share this discussion with you where there are spine patients talking about CSF leaks. You may be able to connect with those members .

Spine Health - Spinal CSF leaks
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/spinal-csf-leaks/

Does anyone know how long it take heal from an anterior/posterior fusion from C3 to T3?

Hello,
32yo M. Struggling with many issues following cervical spine fusions. Looking for help and advice or anyone that can relate. 4 years ago started as cervical spinal cord injury from C4-5 herniation. Had C4-5 anterior fusion. Fusion failed, then had posterior laminectomy and fusion at that level. Disc below herniated then had C5-6 anterior fusion also. Immediately following surgery and for the last 4 years I have been experiencing constant nausea and vomitting. Been to multiple ENT doctors and gastro doctors. Have completed 2 barium swallow tests came back fine. Endoscopy came back ok with them noticing scar tissue from throwing up all day every day. Had multiple CT scans of abdomen came back fine. Current gastro doctor thinks it could be gastroparesis or vagus nerve damage. Going in a few weeks for gastric emptying test and will update on results. Has anyone experienced this following spinal cord injury and anterior fusions? Now onto my other current issues and symptoms. Ever since the initial surgery I have also had severe chronic neck pain. I have been diagnosed with degenerative disc disease. Tried PT, spine injections, medication etc. Nothing manages the pain. I have permanent leg weakness and spasticity from the spinal cord injury. Now I am experiencing new hand and arm weakness and numbness and tingling in fingers. Continuous headaches and dizziness. Pain into shoulders. Obvious range of motion and movement issues including balance and even walking. At this point is it very difficult to do much of anything including basic day to day things. This has led to mental health issues at this point. I am on medication for that and everything else now. Neurologist performed nerve study on my arms and legs and all results pointed to continuing cervical spine issues. Last MRI was 9 months ago and showed C3-4 central disc protrusion effacing thecal sac and cord. C6-7 mild central disc protrusion indenting thecal sac but not cord at that time. My symptoms are significantly worse now. Next MRI is in a coulple weeks and will update on that also. The past 4 years it have been absolutely debilitating. Also very very frustrating when no doctor I have seen is willing to help or even be compassionate about any of my problems. I have been told “just deal with it” countless times and its really depressing since I cannot do even basic tasks. If anyone can relate to any of this I would really appreciate to talk and get any insight. Thank you!