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Needed Help Gathering Questions for Surgeon

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Chronic Pain
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Posted 3/2/2017 5:10 AM (GMT 0)

My son was recently diagnosed with Scheuermann's Kyphosis. The orthopedic surgeon said it was severe due to how curved his spine was. Apparently Scheuermann's is when you have both scolisis and kyphosis (humpback) togather. His scolosis is only 10 degrees and not concerning however the kyphosis is 70 degrees. The surgeon said they normally automatically do surgery at 70 degrees. But due to my history of having 6 back surgeries. He wanted to see if Dakota could strengthen his muscles and it get better. Well after starting therapy his pain intensified so bad. He was hurting so bad. To the point where the therapist wanted me to get another appt with the ortho surgeon. Not just that it looks like the kyphosis has gotten worse. So our appt they have squeezed us in tomorrow morning at 8 am. I know alot of ya are asleep but if there is anyone awake can you help me think of questions to ask the surgeon just in case he says its time to do surgery. My son is soon to be 15. If you had a child having a rod put in their back what all would you ask? Here is a link to the surgery if that helps.

Thanks,
Angela

https://youtu.be/0n69ylZKUL8








Post Edited (proudmom2x) : 3/1/2017 10:18:38 PM (GMT-7)

Posted 3/2/2017 6:36 PM (GMT 0)
Hello Angela, of course this is well after your son's appointment. So very sorry to read about what is going on with your son. I can tell you about a lady that I knew, her daughter was born with scoliosis & it became progressively worse as she grew. When she turned 16 she had surgery to correct it, they used the Harrington rods, it was a big surgery. I saw her daughter at 8 weeks post op & this kid had the biggest grin on her face. She said she was so happy to be pain free & be able to stand straight, now that is a success story if there ever was one. This was 8 weeks post op. But, we must remember these kids heal much quicker & faster than us parents.

Out of curiosity have you had a second opinion about the proposed surgery? If not I strongly recommend that you do so. You may want to consider having the very best neurosurgeon take a look at things. Again, that is my own personal preference, when it comes to spine surgery of any kind I would only use a neurosurgeon. Over the span of 20 some odd years while working I saw the difference between the 2 surgeons with many people. Granted no 2 cases are a like either.

I hope that you come back & let us know how the appt went today. Take care.
Posted 3/3/2017 6:10 AM (GMT 0)
Thanks Susie. His appointment went as good as could be expected. His back has worsened. In January he was 70 degrees and today he was 78 degrees. The orthopedic surgeon does feel like our best option is surgery and the harrington rods is what they will use. We are in a dilemma on the neurosurgeon situation here on when they can get him in. They are booking appts out 6-7 months. My son is in constant pain everyday. Ive had 6 back surgeries all by neurosurgeons. 1 screwed me up 1 fixed the first ones screw ups. So i definitely understand. After talking with the ortho surgeon i do feel a little bit better about him doing it bc he said all he will be touching is the bone. They avoid all the disc and nerves. We havent fully made the decision. I wish i could find someone who has had it done.Its such a hard decision when its your child your dealing with. Thanks for commenting!
Posted 3/3/2017 2:18 PM (GMT 0)
Angela, it is horrendous when it is one of our kids, I completely understand that. Do you have a children's hospital that you can get a referral to? It may involve traveling a bit, but could very much be very beneficial for your son. Most children's hospitals have every type of specialist under the sun & the drs operate out of the children's hospital. I would be calling around looking for a pediatric ortho or neuro for him. Just a thought, for sure get a 2nd maybe even a 3rd opinion.

Take care.
Posted 3/3/2017 4:22 PM (GMT 0)
I agree with Susie. Although your son is in pain, I would take your time in selecting a surgeon. I would also opt with a neurosurgeon as opposed to an orthopedic surgeon.

If the surgery goes awry, there is the possibility that your son will have a lifetime of pain or dysfunction.

Do not make a decision in haste.

The idea of consulting with a Children's hospital is also wise.

You want the best of the best for your child, not the orthopedist who is the most readily available. Your comment that you are "feeling better" about this orthopedist gives me room for hesitation. Obviously, you have some reservations yourself but are feeling pushed to make a decision owing to your son's pain. Do not make a hasty decision. A less than optional surgical result may leave your son with equal or more pain than he is in now.

Make your decision with care and thoughtfulness.
- Karen -
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