Nerve damage resulting from incorrect pedicle screw placement.

Posted by Denny T @dennymt, Nov 19, 2023

Had L4/L5 lumbar fusion in October, 2022. L5 pedicle screw "stretched" my nerve, resulting in severe right leg weakness and right drop foot. Screw was removed January, 2023. Even though I have read where damaged nerves do heal, although slowly, my neurosurgeon told me it is unlikely my condition will improve. I am unable to walk with a cane or walking sticks. Anyone else had nerve damage caused my incorrectly placed pedicle screw? How did that affect you? Did your nerve heal?

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Spine Health Support Group.

sbreaker | @sbreaker | Feb 26 10:08pm

Had a nerve taken out by ankle to look for proteins they found none, leg got worse and weaker

kdt | @kdt | Mar 2 4:13pm

Hi @dennymt i had my cervical fusion and laminectomy recently extended at a different hospital, but I was curious where you had your surgery? I’m asking because the first cervical fusion and laminectomy I had - the pedical screws were a problem from the beginning- they were loose. I did have the surgery done again and extended, and part of one screw was left in my back because the neurosurgeon said it would’ve been excruciatingly painful and more dangerous to try to take it out. So the screw fragment is in the bone forever. My second surgeon said he didn’t even have to use a tool to get the top of the screw off - he said it was so loose he took it out with his fingers. I guess I’m wondering where you had your surgery? Meaning what hospital? Did they ever tell you that the screw or screws are what caused your nerve damage? Did they say anything about the screws possibly being too small or maybe the better question is did your new Surgeon use different screws the second time?