[ashley]

#6686

Hi Dr. I had my acdf c6/c7 with cage and hardware 3 weeks ago now. I seem to be doing fine and I go see my neuro next week at the 4 week mark.

However, I have forgotten and bent over at the waist a few times and once opened a fire door for myself. I know I am not supposed to do those things but should I be worried I have affected my fusion? I will try to do better. Lol! Thanks Dr.

[Donald Corenman, MD, DC]

#6694

The ACDF surgery with a plate should be stable enough to perform the typical day to day activities including bending forward and opening even heavy doors.

Dr. Corenman

[ashley]

#6711

Thank you so much. Good to know. I really appreciate your knowledge as it is a while from surgery date until my first appt with the ns.

I have also not been able to eat a whole lot these last few weeks. Its a bit hard to swallow still and my dilaudid makes me feel sick. I have been taking childrens gummy vitamins because I am worried about not getting enough nutrients and the adult vitamins make me sick.

To be honest I am lucky if I get a few popsicles a handful of grapes and some scrambled eggs in during a day.

How important is nutrition in terms of fusing properly?

[Donald Corenman, MD, DC]

#6713

Nutrition is somewhat important to heal but it is unlikely that healing will be diminished by restriction of proteins for this short period of time. What is somewhat concerning is that you have significant dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) so long after surgery. Call your neurosurgeon and see if he or she would consider an oral steroid to help reduce the swelling. You will find that thicker liquids (yogurt or ice cream milk shakes) are easier to swallow.

Dr. Corenman

[Author]

Posts