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7 Level C3 - T2 Posterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion needed

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Posted 7/10/2021 10:07 PM (GMT 0)
Hello all,

I’ve had a previous C5-C6 fusion with excellent results. I had a fall recently that injured my neck and spine. Mri shows severe stenosis in my cervical area. Dr recommends 7 Level C3 - T2 Posterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion. Possibly more after he gets in there. Anyone out there have that many cervical levels at once?

I’m 52 yr old male. Should i do now or wait? This is more of a preventative to keep me well. I heal fairly well now, don’t know if it will stay that way as I age. Worried my luck will run out and end up with a bad result. Waiting on 2nd opinion from another neuro.
Posted 7/11/2021 1:38 PM (GMT 0)
Hello ThisWillBeGood, I do not recall any members in the past that has had this many levels done. Most had a 4 levels max. How soon after the fall did you have the MRI? What kind of physical symptoms are you having now? Compared to your first MRI to the 2nd one how much different? Any residual issues after the anterior surgery. Yes, drs do caution patients there is a potential of further surgery later, it depends on the individual.

This will be a posterior surgery & the healing will be much different & longer than the anterior you had. If this were me, I would get more than one 2nd opinion. I would get at least a third opinion & maybe a fourth. I would also look for a board certified, fellowship trained neurosurgeon for these opinions. I would check with my insurance to see who is on their approved list, this can be done online. Check the drs out on Healthgrades & Rate Mds, just to see how they are rated. I do not rely solely with reviews, but if you see a bunch of negative reviews that's a good indicator.

I am not saying your surgeon isn't good, however, with a surgery proposal of this magnitude it warrants getting numerous opinions & doing your homework. You don't need to rush into this. I would compile a list of surgeons & ask my GP to make the referrals. Your insurance should pay for these consults without a problem.

What type of work do you do? Sorry for so many questions, just trying to be as helpful as I can.
Posted 7/13/2021 2:49 AM (GMT 0)
Thanks for the quick reply straydog.

How soon after the fall did you have the MRI?
Most recent MRI was a day after fall.

What kind of physical symptoms are you having now?
Just forearm and hand nerve issues, both arms. Unfortunately Dr. says the big surgery may not help that at all, since it is from a central cord injury. It should get better over time but may not. I hope it does, it is similar to the issues I had prior to fusion, except in both arms and the whole hands.

Compared to your first MRI to the 2nd one how much different?
I've had numerous MRIs since the early 2000s. Stenosis has progressed from moderate to severe in many areas.

Any residual issues after the anterior surgery.
None that I know off. Excellent results, pain and pins and needles gone as soon as I woke up in recovery.

We don't have a lot of options her locally for neuros, so I am getting opinion from Mayo and will contact my Primary Care Dr. for more referrals.

What type of work do you do?
I draw civil engineering construction plans and IT work.

Sorry for so many questions, just trying to be as helpful as I can.
No problem, I appreciate it.
Posted 7/14/2021 12:30 PM (GMT 0)
I would start making a list of questions to ask these surgeons. Since you do not have many options for neurosurgeons in your city it makes it difficult for a patient in your shoes. With fusing all of those levels you will lose a good deal of range of motion. Will this surgery interfere with your line of employment? I would ask how long of a recovery is anticipated. Recovery from this surgery is much different than ACDF. You are in a tough spot with the central cord injury.

I am glad that you are going to be seen at the Mayo Clinic. Please let us know how this appt goes.
Posted 11/27/2021 8:14 PM (GMT 0)
Well had my appointment at mayo. Going with them. Only doing level above and below my current fusion and going in through the front. Dec 20th. Hoping COVID doesn’t shut it down, and everything goes well.
Posted Yesterday 4:55 PM (GMT 0)
I am glad to read that your consult at the Mayo Clinic went well. They have excellent drs there so you will be in good hands. Hopefully covid does not cause a problem for you. Keep us posted.
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