anyone have cervical fusion of c5 and 6?

Question

i have 2 herniated discs. neurosurgeon recommends have fusion and a plate put in. any input?

Answer 1

I had a a fusion 8 years ago, and I have not had any problems since. Get a second opinion , and ask plenty of questions.
Good Luck

rapger54

Answer 2

I had my neck fused about 13 years ago and never regretted it.
Mine is fused from 3, 4, 5, 6. But I was losing the use of my left arm and it was spreading to my right.

Before I had the surgery I had an MRI with contrast (dye) and an EMG (use electrodes to test nerve damage). An anesthesiologist also did some "nasty" test where he injection dye right into the herniated disc area, causing it to bulge out; he recommended immediate surgery.

Before you decide to go through the procedure, have another doctor, preferably an orthopedic surgery who specializes in neck injuries, evaluate the need.

Answer 3

I've got a bad lumbar 4&5.....may have to have similar treatment in future.
Hope all comes out well. Most of the people I've talked with either say they wish they'd done it years ago or wish they'd never gone near a surgeon.
I suggest you check out your surgeon to see how many times they have performed this particular opperation and if any complaints have been registerd against them. That may ease your mind some.

Answer 4

Yes, done in 2002. It was a great relief for me and I have continued to have good results in the 4 years since the operation.

Answer 5

As my Dr. told me the best time to have surgery is the day before you are ready to do it yourself I had it still puts me out of commision for days at a time but the pain before was unbearable also dont use your own hip bone for a plug as that also hurts bones in the bone bank dont know who they for use um.