Good morning friends…I’m scheduled on Wednesday for another surgery. I’ve previously had C-5 thru C-7 fused, as well as Chiari decompression back in 2005. This next surgery will (among other things) fuse what’s left of C-1 thru C5, so my entire C-spine will be fused. I’m wondering if anyone else has had their entire neck fused, and what lifestyle changes and limitations were a result of this surgery. I’m also having a pseudomenengecele fixed, and since this is a 3rd surgery and I have scar tissue, what were the difficulties, if any, of the wounds healing? Of course, I’ve spoken to my prince of a surgeon about this, but would like to hear any personal experiences. God bless our surgeons and their vast knowledge, but no one knows more than someone who has actually lived through it. I know every story is different-- and they are all valuable to me.
I have had 2 fusions ..C3-4, then 2 yrs later C5-6...I am about ready to have another MRI due to cervical neck pain...so, I am sorry I cannot really help you as far as the entire C-Spine being fused....
When is your surgery?? Let me , all of us, know how you are doing..
I had a c5-c6 fusion in 2010, and I had to give up work last year. That's when I found out about Chairi - I have all the symptoms... and waiting on a dx. It's so difficult here in Canada as doctors are not taking Chairi symptoms very seriously at all. Before I went off work last year my doctor told me all my symptoms is due to the cervical fusion, but now I know that's not the case - I believe Chairi is playing a big part in my symptoms. My symptoms have gotten worse since the c5-c6 fusion. The orthopedic surgeon who did my surgery says the fusion took and that whatever else is going on I'll have to live with it. I can't imagine having your whole c spine fused.
I really hope things work out for you. Keep me in your prayers as well that I have a dx soon.
Absolutely will keep you in my prayers. I remember that incredibly frustrating period before you have a dx when everyone thinks you’re some kind of malingerer because you couldn’t possibly have such a wild range of unusual symptoms and have it be anything other than “all in your head.” Enter…Chiari! Best of luck to you.
Yes, Laila, you're absolutely right! "Malingerer" is certainly what they label you with... I so hate not being able to work again - I'm only 54 and I have a lot of years ahead of me. To get back into the workforce would be wonderful for me. I worked 30 years with the government and was not ready to retire on medical disability.
So sorry...I jsut re-read your post...your surgery is Wed....You will be in thought and prayer for sure..not that my prayers are 'extra special'..but , hey, the more prayers the better, is my thinking.
Please let us know how you are doing, ok?? Here for you.