Dr. Rand - Boston NEBH

[Guest guest]

Hello Everyone,

First let me say I have learned so much from this group, you are all truly

amazing and a wealth of information. I have been lurking here on and off for

about 4 years as my flatback progressed/degenerated to the point where now I

can no longer stand erect, I'm in constant pain, and walking more than a few

feet is agonizing. Like many of you, I had surgery for scoliosis and a

Harrington Rod has been in place since 1974. I had no real problems until about

6 years ago, when my symptoms began, a little bit at a time. I've spent the past

5 years working through the medical doctors, physical therapy, pool therapy,

specialists, and insurance red tape. After consulting with three different ortho

surgeons I have decided Dr. Rand has the most experience and knowledge regarding

the revision surgery I need and am scheduled for a posterior/anterior fusion

starting on May 24th with the posterior portion T10-S1 of the revision, and the

anterior portion of the surgery will be 10-14 days after this. Has anyone had

this two-step surgery with Dr. Rand? Can anyone give me an idea of the recovery

progress both between the two surgeries, and after both surgeries are complete?

Also, he is not removing the Harrington Rod but is rather going to " hook onto

it " and continue the fusion down to S1. I'm very interested/curious as to how

much this will limit my range of motion, as my original fusion with the

Harrington Rod is from T4 to L2 so in effect I'll be fused from T4-S1. One of my

main concerns, and this might sound silly, but will I be able to take care of my

own toileting from beginning to 'end' if you know what I mean? Any response to

my concerns here would be greatly appreciated, especially in regards to those

who have experience with Dr. Rand. I'm at 18 days away from my first surgery and

starting to get a little anxious.

Thanks so Much - Pat