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Has anyone had spinal fusion from Occipult to T3?
I have had 6 cervical surgeries since 1992. 4 have been anterior and 2 posterior. In total I am currently fused from C3 - T3. I now have severe spinal cord compression at C1-C3. My doctors are now recommending surgery for Occipult - C2. I am so scared. What will life be like with no mobility at all in my neck?
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I'm so sorry. I have fusion C3-T1. My 2nd surgery. I can't even imagine 6 surgeries and possibly loosing my mobility. 🙏🙏
@silia - With six spinal surgeries already, you are certainly well aware of the fact your spine continues to require surgical attention!
I have limited neck mobility related to a recent 4-level fusion and I fully understand your concerns over neck mobility limitations. Your decision to have the "next surgery" can be viewed as a personal risk management dilemma. Which problem is the most demanding: (1) Continued cervical-related symptoms and possible additional nerve damage or (2) Further reduced cervical mobility (as the likely surgical outcome)?
Only you can make such a determination. Have you had this exact discussion with your neurosurgeon(s)? Understanding better the likely outcomes of both the decision options listed above, can be helpful as you consider what to do.
If you don’t mind me asking, fused C3-T1 how much mobility and movement do you have? How was the surgery recovery? Are you able to work? I’m facing a C2-T2 fusion. I’m scared of the unknown as I’m a very active person. Already fused 4-6
It sounds like you're fusing your upper spine which is the C area. I don't know the recovery for the upper spine, but for the lumbar spine, the recovery time was 6 months.