F with 4 lumbar fusion revisions, urinary retention, nerve swelling
Complex post-spinal fusion nerve injury issues after multiple surgeries – seeking guidance
My daughter was born in 2004 and has had multiple surgeries for spondylolisthesis with ongoing neurological complications. We are trying to understand possible causes and what type of specialists or evaluations may help next.
- Surgical Timeline
Oct 2014 (Stanford Children’s):
First surgery for spondylolisthesis with placement of 6 screws.
Following months one screw broke.
Apr 2016:
Second surgery performed to remove all screws/hardware.
Symptoms worsened afterward.
Sept 2016:
T hird surgery with re-instrumentation including pelvic fixation (long pelvic screw).
After this surgery:
developed foot drop
prolonged severe nerve pain
later informed that one screw may have partially entered the nerve canal
Apr 2026 (UCSF):
Fourth surgery performed to remove hardware including the pelvic screw.
Two screws on the right side remain.
Current Symptoms After Latest Surgery
Left thigh numbness
Unable to urinate without catheterization
Numbness in inner anus muscle; unable to pass stool without laxatives
Severe pain in upper right thigh/groin area- unable to stand -walk for long
Difficulty standing or walking for long periods
MRI reportedly shows internal nerve swelling
Need help and guidance
We already have records from Stanford Children’s and UCSF.
Any guidance on expert centers or specialists experienced with complex postoperative nerve injuries would be greatly appreciated.
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