Guest guest Posted December 4, 2004 Report Share Posted December 4, 2004 I am a silent member, have only posted a couple of times. But I wanted to hear your opinions on a problem. I have had bad neck pain for quite a while. Had X-rays and MRI last year that showed problems in Vertebrae 5 & 6 and 1 & 2, Some movement. My rheumy and a neuro surgeon who works in the same clinic suggested neck fusion or epidural shots. I didn't want to do either at the time, " I can stand the pain " . I recently went to an ortho to inquire about knee replacement. I happened to mention about my neck hurting, the PA there, ( different clinic) said that we needed to take some x rays to be sure that if during the knee surgery, I had to be intibated (sp), that they didn't create more problems in my neck. I was impressed with this, It made sence. They did so and found problems, unstable vertebraes in 1 and 2 and 5 and 6. They called in a back guy immediately and he required another MRI which happened a few days later. To make a long story shorter, bear with me, he came in the office and said " this is serious " , The surgery (neck fusion) is risky, but I think you need it. He referred me to another ortho guy to verify his findings, I haven't seen him yet. My question, you who have had neck fusions, can you share your experiences. I'm scared to death, which doesn't help my state of flareness. I appreciate all your info. Sherry Kansas RA for 20 years Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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