lila

Hello Dr Corenman,

Thank you so much for taking the time to read all of that and replying to me! I know it is a lot to take in and go over, so I sincerely appreciate your response. I understand it is incredibly hard to give any advice without seeing images or files. You are right. I was diagnosed with cervical myelopathy.

Let me clarify…
It was the surgeons PA that told me URINARY URGENCY could NOT be related to my injury.
However I was under the impression it could after reading up on causes. I complained multiple times about it, but they haven’t requested any work up or referred me to any specialist.
Who is supposed to test and treat for urinary issues due to myelopathy?

I noticed you didn’t respond to my question regarding whether this is typical care from a neurosurgeon. :)
I do not want to paint the surgeon in a bad light. He obviously must have very capable hands, to be in his position. I am thankful that he caught the problem and acted urgently. I was told he is generally very conservative and only performs surgery on necessary problems. When I was shown the compression and deformity of my spinal cord, I absolutely agreed it needed to be fixed, and still do. I don’t regret or doubt the need for the surgery.
However, I get this feeling that he isn’t being upfront with me. Or that I’m only receiving partial answers.

I will change the question format.
As a surgeon, if your patient that had 3 level surgery and correction of lordosis and sublaxation, was complaining of sharp stabbing pain worse than before surgery, at 6 months post op, would it concern you and would you request a ct scan or follow up tests?

If a patient complains of urinary issues, as a surgeon, what do you do? Do you refer to a urologist or anything?
If the PA is saying urinary urgency cannot be caused by my injury, but I have been diagnosed with cervical myelopathy, is she incorrect?

As a surgeon, do you look at images such as bone xray and mri WITH the patient?
Is my surgeon able to see fusion on xray alone? Or on MRI?

At 6 months should I have fused by now?
Is it appropriate at 6 months post op, to try injections? Should this have been suggested by the surgeon?

As before, I appreciate any input. I am feeling rather confused about the role of my surgeon and whether or not he is supposed to be treating me or if his role is now done.
Would you or any other surgeon be willing to take on a patient 6 months post op and what determines whether a surgeon will or won’t?

Thank you so much for your time Doctor. I really do appreciate it…

Lila