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  • cgklein
    Participant
    March 16, 2017 at 2:13 pm
    Post count: 7
    in reply to: Failed ACDF?? Next steps #24537

    I am concerned that since my original fusion was not successful that my revision would not be as well. What makes the likelihood of my revision more likely to be successful?

    Thanks

    cgklein
    Participant
    March 14, 2017 at 12:45 pm
    Post count: 7
    in reply to: Failed ACDF?? Next steps #24530

    I saw the spine orthopedist yesterday and in fact my ACDF bone graft has not fused. We are going to do a MRI/CT scan or mylogram (due to my SCS) to better understand the status of my fusion and nerve issues. We discussed the need for future surgery to address my pseudoarthrosis. The doctor stated that he would go in from the back, perform another bone graft and insert some screws to stabilize my neck. Although very simplified, this matches what I have read online.

    My question is, what are the advantages/disadvantages to have a spine orthopedist such as yourself versus a neurosurgeon conduct the surgery? My ACDF was performed by a neurosurgeon.

    Thank you, CK

    cgklein
    Participant
    February 19, 2017 at 7:02 am
    Post count: 7
    in reply to: Failed ACDF?? Next steps #24348

    My prior x-ray stated, “In the neutral position, vertebral body alignment is unremarkable, without focal subluxation. There is no evidence of abnormal motion on the flexion or extension views. Changes of prior anterior fusion are present from C4 through C6, with no evidence of hardware loosening. Mild disc space narrowing and small anterior osteophytes are present at C6-7. Posterior osteophytic ridging and mild to moderate facet joint degenerative changes are present from C3-4 through C7-T1. Changes of prior anterior fusion from C4 through C6 and mild to moderate degenerative changes throughout the cervical spine, without associated instability.”

    cgklein
    Participant
    February 18, 2017 at 5:14 pm
    Post count: 7
    in reply to: Failed ACDF?? Next steps #24347

    Dr. Corenman, I received my latest x-rays but the radiologist did not say anything about the status of my fusion. Is there a way that I can attach an image to get your opinion? The report did say, “Prevertebral soft tissues are within normal limits. There is anterior spinal fixation hardware from the C4-C6 level
    with interbody disc spacers. There is no instability with flexion or extension. No focal acute bony abnormality
    identified. Neural foramina are relatively widely patent.”

    Thank you, CK

    cgklein
    Participant
    February 16, 2017 at 2:58 pm
    Post count: 7
    in reply to: Failed ACDF?? Next steps #24342

    Dr. Corenman, thank you again. Two follow-up questions. First, since it appears that I have pseudoarthrosis and I know that I have a pinched C6 nerve, is it okay to use my home traction device or would this potentially cause additional damage to the pseudoarthrosis? Second, during the past year during my recovery of my ACDF, I used Voltaren Gel on my shoulder. Could this have impacted by fusion?

    Thanks you, CK

    cgklein
    Participant
    February 13, 2017 at 6:39 pm
    Post count: 7
    in reply to: Failed ACDF?? Next steps #24329

    Dr. Corenman, thank you for your response. I will find a spine surgeon and follow-up with a CT scan or MRI. If my issue is a failed fusion, how does my osteoporosis and/or CRPS affect my ability to have a successful fusion in the future? Since it has been over a year since my ACDF surgery and the x-ray shows that the fusion is not complete, would this indicate a failed fusion or could it take longer than a year to fuse?

    Thank you, CK

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