I had a videoconference with Dr. Bolongnese on Friday. He indicated that I have a clear cut case of craniocervical instability and draping of the brainstem over the odontoid process. I was very impressed with his knowledge and explanations. I wanted to know members' experiences with Dr. B for craniocervical fusion surgery and follow-ups. Thank you.
I think you may want to do some additional research on Dr. Bolongese and his North Shore Hospital group and his subsequent affiliations. Particularly check his malpractice record and complaints especially regarding multiple surgeries and unnecessary surgeries.
By tele conference I assume you have not met Dr. Bolognese but rather had one of his famous Skype Consultations? The only way to truly diagnose Cervical instability and the need for surgery is by determining a Nurick grade and a modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (mJOA) score. BOTH should be done. This is done by a very extensive physical exam. If these scores have not been done and verified and talk of surgery is premature. It is a very complicated procedure with an extremely high rate of complications
Drr Bolognese has developed his own procedure that is actually three procedures. It is VERY controversial and has lead to the very unusual step of his peers bringing complaints forward Either he is a visionary or he is something else.......
http://www.nydailynews.com/news/case-katie-bryant-med-pros-shocked-...
http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/brain-surgeons-thomas-milhorat-...
http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&sour...
Please research heavily and I don't mean opinions on the internet. Professional opinions based on ACTUAL PHYSICAL EXAM matter. I'm sorry this guy appears to be a bad actor with multiple law suits, suspensions and Changes of affiliations. At one point before leaving another center it looks like his procedures had to be preapproved/reviewed. Even though he was the "rainmaker" he was suspended and subsequently left.................
It's always a good idea to check the malpractice record of one's surgeon. There can be unpleasant surprises sometimes.
Hello, My name is Thomas and I had Craniocervical Fusion Surgery in 2002. Dr. bolongnese was my surgeon. If it wasn't for Dr. B I would have DIED!!!!!! People sue for malpractice all the the time because they want something for nothing!!!!!!!
Dr. Bolognese saved my life too!!! Nice to read you story and I am glad you found (IMO) the most competent chiari specialist in the country. It is my hope that more members here find Dr. B and his team.
D
There is no more difficult state in the Union for malpractice than New York. The standard is that the physician must have knowingly violated the standard of care. In short, a physician must be found guilty by a group of physicians before the suit can be brought. That group incidentally has got to come from centers of excellence. I am happy for anyone who had a good experience. I wish there was something we could do for those who did not.
TOMTITANIUM said:
Hello, My name is Thomas and I had Craniocervical Fusion Surgery in 2002. Dr. bolongnese was my surgeon. If it wasn't for Dr. B I would have DIED!!!!!! People sue for malpractice all the the time because they want something for nothing!!!!!!!
Since this discussion has the potential to polarize the community, we are closing it to further responses.