Guest guest Posted December 31, 2000 Report Share Posted December 31, 2000 I had a spinal fusion when I was in seventh grade. I was in the hospital for about a week, and recuperated at home for about...a couple months (? give or take...I'm now 26) I had to wear a back brace until early June (I had the surgery in January), and still wore it for horseback riding. You should always consider getting a second opinion for a major surgery. I had the fusion done to keep the curvature I have in my spine (located between my shoulder blades) from getting worse, and it was successful. If anything, the curve even straightened a degree or two. I haven't noticed any adverse effects from the surgery or fusion itself, although perhaps it's because it was in a location that wasn't too mobile to begin with. (I did have problems with the anasthesia they tried to use on the first surgery attempt, but that's another story...) But keep in mind, I have a feeling my story is not typical: 1. I do not have achondroplasia (I have Conradi's Syndrome) 2. I have few medical problems associated with my dwarfism (other than the usual troubles of reaching things on top shelves...and if ther's a cute guy to assist me with that, than this ISN'T a problem and 3.I am extremely fortunate to live in an area which has two pediatric orthapedic specialists who are well-versed in dysplasias who work in our Children's Hospital. Only other tidbit I can offer is that I've heard that, if given a choice, it's best to have a spinal fusion done rather than having rods put in. But this is best left between you and your doctor(s) Best of luck to you! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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