Please reconsider spinal fusion surgery! I had surgery for my scoliosis and it has been a nightmare for me!! I still have the same chronic pain I had before surgery and even more issues ! I have been told lie after lie about why the surgery did not work. Now this video tell all! Listen please listen!!! Sometimes I just wish I can open my back and rip everything out myself… I Can not forgive myself for falling for this surgery! Depression has hit so hard. Jesus please help everyone make the right decision ✨🙏🏻✨
Dr Gary Simonds has made the effort here to step outside any ones comfort zone and speak truths. He is balanced with his talk, but simultaneously does not avoid talking about risk. This is a great man and surgeon. Trust me; Sadly they are not all as amicable as this man!
I love that a surgeon is actually discouraging people from getting surgery! Nice job Dr Simonds! You really get it. Spinal surgery is most definitely a last resort for anyone dealing with back pain. Exhaust all conservative options that include multiple opinions from different PTs just like you would from a physician.
He isn't doing that at all...he is explaining in a clear way some of the real risks and possible outcomes people can expect. Of course, no one should go for a surgery anywhere on their body unless they absolutely need it. Those getting a lot of plastic surgery due to vanity are the ones playing with fire for no good reason.
If only all doctors would be this detailed in providing a full picture of this surgery. The only thing my surgeon said was it will stop the myelopathy from advancing and without surgery it could lead to paralysis. Despite this information, I did not book the surgery. PT, anti inflammatory meds, ice and PT. I also wear a soft collar at bedtime. Everything is going good. Thank you again for your honest assessment
You are a great guy for making a video like this...informing in a calm, articulate way....I have sent the video to a friend that is headed toward lumbar surgery as part of his education on what to expect.
Thanks for this straightforward summary of risks. I had no choice but to have spinal traction and then surgery to repair C5 and C6 fractures, or risk paralysis by doing nothing. But I feel for the tough choice faced by those who are tired of chronic pain, thus whose neurosurgery is elective.
A family fiend was the healthiest person I’ve know. Always active, disciplined diet and maintained a healthy weight. He was an avid golfer and developed some nagging back pain. He had back surgery and almost immediately began having issues with gait and digestion. He began losing weight and saw several specialists. None who could figure out what was causing this. He began to decline to when it was very apparent he had nerve damage and was diagnosed with ALS. Over two years he lost most functionality and he died yesterday. He was a good man. I can’t help but think his ALS was triggered or accelerated by the spinal surgery. It was like a light switch. Prior to surgery he was perfectly fine. After surgery he declined.
Thank you for the info. Wish I had you for my doctor. 3 neck surgeries and now my thigh is still numb and leg weak. Now my bicep is messed up. No more surgeries for Dr. To get rich while I suffer!
I have had 4 back surgeries. The neck and the lower back. My neck C2 circumferential disc bulg C3 circumferential disc bulg with a small tear on the right. C4 thru C7 are fused, that took 2 surgeries to complete. My lower back started out with L5 S1 large rupture on the left, They did a discectomy on that, then 2 years later L3, L4 and L5 S1 all ruptured and they did a discectomy and leminectomy on those, it lead to Cronic radiculopathy in my left leg nerve stem, basically permanent nerve damage , my neurologist said i have 6 bad nerves running down my left leg. My left leg and lower back hurt most days. After they fixed my neck I had so much atrophy down my left are and chest area, I literally could not hold up my body weight trying to do a push up. 10 years ago I was feeling pretty down on life in general and I read everything possible on what can i do to help my quality of life, everything pointed to exercise. I was very optimistic but figured what can it hurt, i feel like shit anyway. So I started working out. The first week was fing torture, but my lower back actually started feeling better, so I trucked on. Long story short, today I am a super stud, LOL. just kidding, but I am in great shape and strong as a horse. I am a big guy, 6'4" and just big in general. I went from not being able to hold my body weight up to benching 300 lbs and its actually higher but I digress. So my routine is cardio, (elliptical, spinning bicycle and row machine,) I switch between those 3. No treadmill its way to jarring. Then I lift weights some days and do plyometrics other days, splitting the days between them. Eating right is crucial , keeping the weight down and just eating the proper food. It changed my life, I turned a really bad situation into healthy living and it works 100%, screw the pain killers and pills in general , they help until they don't then your fucked. I thought i would share my story becasue i know how you guys are feeling, it scary and miserable but there is life after back injuries. Just do it, if your not good at working out, get a trainer, i used one for the first 2 years. a good trainer can work wonder. Good luck and never stop fighting, YOU are worth it. I don't want to hear I have a disc buldge and cant do it or a herniated disc and can't do it. I have or had 8 herniated discs in my neck and lower back and 2 disk bulges in my thoracic, Im just saying, By the way, I am 52 so I don't want to hear I am to old. if I can do it and look like this, anyone can. You will be surprised how fast your body recovers and gets into shape. I actually think i may have caused the L3, L4 and L5 S1 to blow out faster by working out, but it hurt like hell, so I I figured, I am either going to fix it or blow fucker out, (that was for the L5 S1, was a little surprised and L3 and L4 but what ever)_ then a doctor will have to fix it. 4 years since my last lower back surgery and going strong.
This is really inspiring! I’m 49 and just had back surgery on the L1-S1 and am going through horrible pain and can hardly walk. You really ought to make some videos about how you did it. I’d watch them for sure. You’ve already got one like and subscribe lol.
@@therightchick yes, if you want. Make sure you say its for back stuff so I know. We get so many fake ones now we tend to ignore. Gregg fridline . Lapeer, or Davison, Michigan, Face Book. not sure which city it shows, im a mile from davison but technicaly in lapeer. Sorry it took so long, I got a notification the other day and saw yours also. I look forward to talking. I didnt notice it until today. I do hope your feeling better. It's a tough thing to go through.
@@PRO.224 stretching helped me a ton at first. It helped the pain and mobility. If you start, don't push it, let your pain tell you when its enough for the day. When i started, I walked for 10 minutes a day, not a fast pace either. I kept adding to it and the better I felt the more I did.
I just had spinal fusion from T10 to the pelvic to repair a failure from a previous fusion L2-S1. Within two weeks I developed an issue that has been diagnosed as Kyphosis at T9-T10 at the top of the fusion. Now I’m told I need even further surgery to correct this new issue which will leave me fused from T4 to my pelvic. I am opting to try PT. I don’t want another surgery. So I am going to exhaust all other options before doing so. Once you start down the road of spinal fusion surgeries be sure to exhaust all other options before doing so.
I've had 4 back fusion surgeries. The first on my L4, L5, and S1. A year later, I started hurting again. My neurosurgeon ordered a CT Myelogram with contrast to see why I was hurting again. He found out that I had mild scoliosis, L4 had burrowed out L5 was still in place, and my S1 was not intact. He recommended that I have a 2nd surgery to fix the problems and go up two vertebraes and anchor rods to both sides of my pelvic bones. I asked him how long before I would be back for another spinal fusion surgery. He said I would probably be back in ten years. I'm 68 years old, and having another spinal fusion surgery when I'm 78 sounded horrible. I asked him what he could do to prevent me from having another back surgery. He said he could go up further to my T10 vertebrae. I had the 2nd surgery, and I was in the hospital for four days instead of 2 days after my first back surgery. I bled a lot during surgery. I had 3 bulbs to drain the fluids out of my body. One week after my 2nd surgery, my T10 vertebrae fractured and collapsed into kyphosis. I went to my post-op appointment and asked his surgical nurse, who saw me if there was a back brace that could help me stand up straight, which she said no. She requested me to have an exray after my appointment. She called me within a couple of hours and told me that the top T10 vertebrae had fractured into kyphosis, and a piece of bone was loose. I was scheduled for immediate back surgery the next morning. My neurosurgeon straightened my T10 vertebrae, and he removed the piece of bone and went up to my T8 vertebrae. I was only in the hospital for 2 days and a week after my 3rd back surgery when my T8 vertebrae fractured and collapsed into kyphosis. I wore a back brace and medical corset after the last two back to back surgeries. I was not mentally or physically able to endure a fourth surgery, which my neurosurgeon agreed. He wanted me to go through another 6 weeks of physical therapy. I got some strength back, but I lived with my broken T8 vertebrae a year. I worked on losing 30 lbs before I went back for my annual checkup with the neurosurgeon. I was down to 133 lbs. I weighed 160 lbs before I had my 2nd surgery and weighed 173 lbs after the surgery. The exrays showed that my T8 vertebrae was still fractured, and my kyphosis had become worse. September 27th, 2022, I had my fourth spinal fusion surgery, which the neurosurgeon straightened my T8 vertebrae and went up to my T4 vertebrae. I'm totally shocked that after my 4th spinal fusion surgery that my back has been successful, and I'm still standing straight. I have done a lot of laying because it's been too painful for me to walk very much. I didn't (BLT) bend lift or twist. I would wear a medical corset whenever I had to leave the house. I see my neurosurgeon tomorrow for my three month check-up. Some people have asked me why I would continue to go to the same neurosurgeon. It wasn't his fault because he didn't have important information that would have helped him prior to my 2nd surgery. I found out that I had Kyphosis in 2011 after I tore my rotater cuff. The physical therapist helped teach me how to use my back muscles because they were atrophied into kyphosis. My medical records didn't show my neurosurgeon that I used to have kyphosis. The most important part of having back surgery is having all of your past surgical procedures on your medical records. I honestly didn't think about telling my neurosurgeon about me previously having kyphosis. I thought that he had all of the medical records from my past. I'm very thankful that I continued to push until I could stand up straight. My back pain tells me when I need to stop doing things. I have read some heart-felt stories that have similar or much worse outcomes. I pray that my story will hopefully help others.
@@pamelawilson407 Thank you for sharing your history. I've had 3 back surgeries due a tumors called schwannomas in the spinal cord in 2009,2010 n 2015. I'm in constant pain. My new neurosurgeon says that i had kyphosis due the laminectomies from the past 3 surgeries. He ordered CTs and XRs and recommended surgery, I have done everything for the pain but nothing really works. What would be your advice to me, go ahead with surgery o stop even thinking about it Thank you in advance
In last 4years I did 3 spine surgery from L1,L2,L3,L4,L5 & T 12 ,each time I am getting worsening and all screws loose,i wish watching your video before I did the surgery ,after 3 surgery my legs cramp,I can’t walk more then 5 minutes and my life is a nightmare 😢
The message of this video was complications can come regardless of a surgeon's training!! It's always somewhat of a gamble. But I am happy for your outcome and mine as well. I'm just one week post-op!!
What the surgeon forgot to mention is that when there's fluid leak, the result is vertigo due to an imbalance in the cerebral spinal fluid. I had CSF leak, vertigo, and clots due to internal bleeding. All in all I had three operations in 9 days! Thank God I am able to walk but I am in constant pain. Probably due scarring tissue.
Hum well yes exactly what you are saying in regards to the leak and it is contained at the lower level T12 L1 I believe they won’t touch it they don’t want to touch it also when I had the pain pump when they had removed the trial, I endured a spinal leak as well. I did have a doctor drain it headaches one away I was good, after I had the pain pump for seven years and it just quit working due to a malfunction I now have the tubing still in me. No one will touch it nor take it out. I get it but what I don’t get is the serum or they say maybe hematoma still buildup in my back I hurt 24 seven as well as the pain in left arm leg cramping of my toes as well. Any idea what I should do I’m lost.
4 weeks after my lower back surgery, infusion poster interior but I still have pain my sergeant said you have to wait and be passion so what I do Regard
i have mulipule sclerois for about 8 years got injured at work 1 year ago had a neck operation and two lower back operations after first operation screw got lose after going back to work few days had another back operation to repair end off nov last year ms seems to get wose pain back in legs at the back can ms worsen after three operations up to date still not able go back to work have pain lower back how long will it take to recover traffic cop
Even with world renowned surgeons, things can go wrong. People react differently, none of my fusions actually fused (that's not the doctors fault) and nerve damage (hurts soooo badly) and affects arm control. My two surgeries failed miserably and I'll never be able to work again, and I'll never have another surgery unless it's life threatening. My life was tremendously painful to start, but I now have worse but different pain :-( Disabled is a new way of life and of course that comes with "situational depression" because it's hard to give up your old life to a new life where you can't clean a bathroom, you have to split it over 3 days because you can only do so much per day. Heating pads, I spend about 6 hours per day on a heating pad. So please do EVERYTHING you can before you submit to surgery. Sometimes doctors have no control over how your body reacts (or doesn't in my case).
Hi Pam. I appreciated this post; Because is tells the truth about your experience! I am in the same place as you were right now. Been offered L5/S1 fusion and decompression. Lived with Spondylolisthesis since 18 yrs. But have managed my problem and have had an active life! Recently acquired exaggerated lordosis which has pinched the nerve much worse! Am now 58 yrs. Despite loads of pressure from doctors, friend and family have started an exercise program which seems to be re aligning my spine. I live and hope. Thank you for your advice!
😢😢😢 I never wanted spine surgery but had a cyst pressing on my spinal cord. I had so much pain in my leg. When he went in, also had a herniated disc. It's like oh God. So now I have a blood clot in that space. So being cut again is just disgusting. So yeah, it is the worst. My doctor told me all these. So any doctor who doesn't tell you, run away
Great doctor _my attorney wants to close the case 4 months after a terrible crash l got hit from behind at 70 miles because l delaying L4 L5 surgery do to me getting better help me or advise me please .
Thank you Dr. Gary Simonds, I am scheduled to go for lumber spinal stenosis surgery in July (2019), I already had reservations, you have helped me making my decision. I decline this procedure.
@@annimack1591 No, after meeting an old orthopedic surgeon I realized the situation. I went for surgery alone from Am-Can border to Boston. I was on the surgery table on July 12th, after laminectomy & fusion of 2 vertebra I was discharged from the hospital, took a cab to the bus station, after 6 hours trip I was in Bangor, a car ride of 3 hours brought me home. Today I can walk for miles, be on my legs for hours. I work out with the weights and my stationary bike almost days a week. All this was unthinkable a year ago. I am reaching 73.
@@erijqudus1960 they must push you out of the hospital fast. I was in 13 days first time for my 8th surgery and 11 days for my 9th, including 6 days in the ICU. Back surgery is considered major and most people stay at least 4+ days!
@@annimack1591 I was asked to leave after 2 nights, I requested for one more night, so I was out after 3 nights. It was not easy for a drugged person to catch a cab, then make it to the bus terminal, and then go on a long journey to home.
I ride broncs for a living does anybody that has done this think it's a good idea if I want to keep going or should I wait. I'm 26 and have a good amount of atrophy in my riding shoulder and bicep. Has anybody tried decompression? I want to avoid surgery but I'm losing strength and muscle by the day. Doc wants to do disc replacement at c5 and c6
I want in for two level cervical disc replacement something went wrong where I could’ve been paralyzed my whole body he had to stop the operation something about Nerve singles were stopped he tried for six hours to get it to go back on finally he said forget it there’s nothing else I could do he stitched me up and magically while he put last stitch in nerves came back alive but now my left side of my body is weak please tell me I’m going to get my strength back please tell me this is not permanent it’s November 15 today I got this done November 11
I have a big issue in L zone. My neurosurgeon recommended to do this surgery. Now I’m really afraid to go to that. IDK what to do. What will happen if don’t do the surgery? Dear doctor… please explain. I live in Sri Lanka.
Unfortunately for the many issues I have in my lower back, I have had 2 falls with broken kneecap, torn meniscus and broken elbow. I am afraid to walk at all. The mri wasn’t promising. Stenosis, pinched nerves, bulging disc and a herniated disc and more. The stenosis is bad as looking at the mri from an above looking down, we can’t see the spinal cord. Sure we’ll do the injections, no pt for me since my fall injuries aren’t healing well. I want to be pain free, but most of all I don’t want to fall anymore. Now what? I had a laminectomy C3-c7. I was told to not lift, fall or even get jolted or I would be paralyzed.
Had c5-c7 fusion in 2002, it still hurts quite a bit and I haven’t had any good sleep in almost 20 years. I’ll take weed over opiates it seems to help more without the addiction
Thank-you. I am feeling very fortunate after a c6-c7 fracture, dislocated/locked facet, and central cord syndrome following a fall from a horse. So far I have minimal damage- just hand and arm weakness/numbness and trouble talking/swallowing. I feel so very lucky and amazed at how surgeons work on such a tiny area with such delicacy and precision. Thanks for this great video series. It has helped me put the brakes on my intense desire to do things I shouldn't be doing at 7 weeks post-accident.
Unfortunately my spine fused due to inflammation in a way that I lost flexibility in all of my joints and have incredible muscular stiffness. All I say it hurts.
Hye... Thank You for the good explaination... My name is Jazmeen and I did L5S1 TLIF Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion surgery on April 2022 around January 2023 my legs are not like before... I have this Restless Legs n terrible at night... up until now, I am feeling that my legs are getting weaker... Can You help me to understand this condition... I am taking Magnesium Bisglycinate Chelate and Vitamin B supplement but I still feel the restless legs, cant really sleep ... n feeling weak.. Can You help me to explain why this is happening??
My complication after a non fused L5/S1 discectomy, facetectomy, and laminectomy was an epidural hematoma. Probably because I rushed to begin PT and overdid it. I was in agony and caught a taxi to A&E (what we call ER in NZ). I am not sure if there was long term damage. A few years after surgery I began really struggling to walk. My right leg weakens, hurts, and gets numb. MRI summary said no change from the previous one. I ordered the actual radiologist report and compared it to an earlier one. Mild to moderated rated foraminal stenosis right side L5/5 has become severe rated. That's a change, so I got my GP to write to them. Now the surgeon says there is deterioration and is recommending PLIF. That's progress. Downside is I moved house, so the case is not under his district health board, i.e., I've been referred to orthopaedics at the new one. Hopefully they read his letter and I am not back to square one like the previous time I moved house. Fusion is not certain to be effective, but being able to walk okay again would be great. I am a bit more wary than last time though, because I am 53 now. Here in NZ they cite all the failed surgeries in the USA as a reason to avoid operating. Very conservative and my GP said the bar to get surgery is high and to get a second one is extremely rare. A cynic would say they use it as a way to save money. I have known for a long time fusion is probably going to be needed for me. It took years for orthopaedics to see it that way. Possible wasted years, because I have been laid up while they feed me tramadol and get me doing DIY PT at home. Scrapheap of expended human labour, when I could have been working and contributing. P.S. With lumbar spine stuff when it gets nasty they always want to stick their fingers up the patient's butt hole to rule out CES. With all this modern tech they still resort to that. I dunno.
Ive been lucky, I know 3 of my surgeries worked, the last one, I came out with nerve damage, not sure how it happened. Investigate surgeons, my first doctor was considered one of the best in michigan, he did 2 of my surgeries and both went great. He passed away on me so I had to use another, he did good for one for sure, last one im not sure if the damage came from the blown disks or surgery. It blew out in the same exact spot. Do PT and streches, it helps so much. I was 320 lbs, drank everyday and took pain killers. I figured I'd better try something different or im not going to be around much longer. I still have issues but can deal with it better. Just try it, and do what you can. I pray it helps as much as its helped me!!
OMG Thank God FINALLY!!! Thank you so much for your comment about flat back syndrome!!! I have it and I just had my 3rd back surgery L5-L6 …I have desperately wanted to discuss with someone else that has had the same problem!!! I would so appreciate knowing how you are …I pray that you are doing better and even better well…Thank you so much for posting…💐
UCSF NEUROSURGERY best care anywhere. I had a 4 level Cspine fusion I have titanium cage. 2 years later 3 level posterior L spine fusion pins and rods. Both surgeries were long 5+ hours inpatient 5 days each time. Lots of post op woes drains erc.....but I felt better as soon as I woke up. Especially L spine. Im in my 50s. I would do it again if I had UCSF.
The rheumatologist diagnosed ASIA syndrome, due to titanium screws in l4-l5, I have pain in the area, joint pain, extreme fatigue, dermatitis. However, the orthopedic surgeon told me that ASIA syndrome is not accepted as a formally recognized entity, that it is most likely a periprosthetic infection. Is there ASIA syndrome due to metallic implants? thank you so much.
I had a cancerous mass removed around the C2 and cervical laminectomy and spinal decompression and fusion of the C2-C4, with plates and screws. Because of the very delicate area of the mass, the Dr. said I could of been parylized but I had no choice for the surgery I had to remove it. The surgeon did a great job, its three months now and I have pain but nothing terrible. I had 23 radiation treatments to my neck after the surgery, that was way worse then the surgery itself by far, I was sick the whole time. Best of luck to anyone out there getting this surgery 🤞🏻, dont be scared, there are many success stories.😉👍🏻
Thank you for the words of encouragement! I am getting surgery in two days and am really nervous, but your kind words really helped! Hope you are doing well and wishing you all the best! ❤️💖💝💗💝💖❤
@@nataliehannis1114 Yes im doing great its been almost 2 years since my surgery, also my cancer hasnt returned , do you have a cancerous mass? Everything will be ok, my surgery was very complicated and it was fine im sure youll be fine , try not to worry, i know its impossible but remember many people are in the same boat as you, best wishes i will keep you in my thoughts , please let me know when you are done how you are doing❤️❤️
Does anyone have high blood pressure and headache after operation? I had operation c7 c1 about 10 month ago, but still suffering with headache and take medication against high blood pressure
After back surgery L4 L5 I'm numb on my private parts the but and testicles about a 2 weeks so for they say it's gonna take time for feeling to come back but idk what are suggestions you think I'll be getting it back
Had micro discectomy/ laminectomy on l5 s1 one year ago. Slightly reherniated and disc has decent annular tear. Have had massive inflammation and muscle spasms up my spine. Spine has been stiff as a stick but gaining some movement back through extremely limited exercises. Still can’t bend. Not sure now but my pain is off to the side from my incision. Not sure if it’s from the laminectomy site. Sometimes the pain is dull and other times it feels like I’m being stabbed with a lit candle. Not sure if it’s scar tissue irritating it, or it’s the inflammation and sensitivity from my disc being injured. If anyone has ideas, or similar experiences please comment.
I still experience your situation..it have been a year.....i also dont know how to deal with this situation as doctors keep telling me to exercise..but no improvement than keep getting worse..and unfortunately i cant stand or walk without support since i came out from surgery
I’m going through horrible pain, I’ve been suffering from, I’ve had 3 failed cervical disc surgeries at C5-6! Now with “the Opioid crisis” I don’t get any more meds & I don’t know what to go now or where to go! I’ve followed all of the rules & now?????😩😫😖
I 've had same problem except at L3 L4 and L5s. I know your pain but i still get my hydro s. I couldn't get out of bed without them. May God bless and help you. I don't think anyone knows what we go thru except us. Every Doctor thinks they saved you because they use us to get more people just like us.
Good they been honest. 😮🎉 am waiting for cervical spinal stenosis decompression surgery and they saying ohh everything's going to be fine afterwards etc etc hmmm?
I had an L4-5 ALIF fusion 3 years ago. My back feels "decent ". However over the past year I have had a very "irritating" pain in my neck area. I'm thinking its something stemming from the fusion since I didnt have this feeling in my neck before. Extremely upsetting. I'm 34 and I dont think I can get another surgery.
My neck was fused 4 years ago and is doing fine, my L5 is terrible, the nerve pain on my left side is causing me so much pain I just want let go. The doctor wants me to have a spine stimulator to help with the pain 🤨 and I’m going to refused due to the effects I had with the VNS for epilepsy. I would prefer to have a fusion since the one in my neck was successful.
@@leslieupshaw226 Hope your not suffering to bad Im in the exact same boat you are L5S1 and 3 vertebra in neck 7 years ago Just had to get new extras and MRI today for a bunch of new issues I've been having over the last 2 years that have escalated
@@johnmitchell8925 I hope you feel better soon. I have been taking Alpha lipoic acid 600mg it helps with the nerves and it has been working great for me.
Had spine surgery as I got cauda equina.three years gone by and I have numbness tingling burning in foot and calf.can hardly move my toes and I exercise everyday. Can anyone help
I'm afraid cauda equina syndrome causes so much damage, it's effects are long lasting, even after surgery, and in my case the symptoms are much worse. Unfortunately doctors don't want to know about it!
2 months post discectomy, I noticed some pain on the opposite side of my back and was told it would go away; the pain level is now a 10 on most days. Is there a real solution for herniated discs???
What do I do now after FSS after multiple epidural injections, nerve root blocks and multiple spinal fluid leaks and three spine fusions surgeries later the horrific problems continue now I’m being faced with the doctor advising a nerve ablation procedure is needed. I’m highly concerned because the aftermath of epidural injections in my neck left me with Essential Tremors since 2017 because of that I’m highly concerned having anyone get that close to the nerves in my spine. “Is it just me or is there anyone else out there experiencing such a huge amount of bad luck with their spine. To date I’m in pain from my neck to buttocks every day. Increasingly getting worse since my last fusion/laminectomy in January 2017 and I’ve developed adult scoliosis which is very minimal right now not really affecting my spine fusions at this time anyway. I can not do anything physical without suffering afterwards.
I have had nerve ablations....were very successful. They only block pain from that immediate area...does not help rediculopathy. I fortunately found a master spine surgeon who has done 5 fusions so far over 15 yrs but everytime gets me back to normal. Good luck...keep searching for good medical care...if one isn't working go to the next.
My surgeon screwed two screws in my disc i had 13 month of infection and i have grinding sound and all that is visible on x-ray but what is problem doc saying all is good so i got 16 screws and rods i cant wipe my ass like normal man yeah crazy
wish I had it to do over again it's been 7 years L5 S1 and 3 fused in the neck Just had a new MRI today and e ray of the right knee that's been killing me ,☠hips and legs are locking up on me can't do much walking or sitting because of sciatica I just don't think I can go thru this again.Get lots of opinions folks from lots of spine specialist before letting them fuse you😢
What a very clear explanation of potential complications. I wish there were numbers available by which we could better understand risk percentages. When we say "common" what percentage is that?
@@CarilionClinicVA how about scoliosis surgery spinal fusion in an otherwise healthy 40 yr old male adult? Could you at least give an estimate %, and even in the advent of a complication how successful do revision surgeries typically go to resolve the issue for the same age demographic?
I have a sad story to tell.. I got scoliosis surgery in 2018, unfortunately it didn't work well as what i expected.. i become paraplegic after that surgery.. It's almost 3 years from that day, yet until now i don't know what's going on.. this february will be my celebration of "3 years being a paraplegic".. It's hard for me to accept the truth, while others success surgeries occured.. i often regretting my decision, but i realise that i have to accept this truth, and continue my new normal life.. Am i the unlucky one? How's your opinion about this?
Hello Roissyah. How are you doing now? My brother in law is also suffering with the same problem. He met with an accident in August 2020 and is still unable to walk. His lower body is numb and he is suffering with severe pain. Physiotherapy is going on. I don't know when he will be able to walk?
Sir I had microdiscectomy on L5-S1 and its been 5 months of hard grueling pain with no relief. Seen 3 Neurosurgeons and three other physicians and they all have indifference of opinion. All I know is I'm weak below the waist, hurt so bad, meds don't alleviate the pain, I'm paying for it with lack of sleep and have lost my job over this. Tired of the run-around and pick docs with insurance guidelines. Any suggestions???
Bollox I went in for micro discectomy , SURGERY NIGHTMARE, ENDED UP WITH A CEREBAL SPINAL FLUID LEAK ,, THE DR WENT INTO REPAIR IT ENDED UP WITH CAUDIA EQINA SYNDROME.
I just had a spinal fusion surgery November 25, there’s bumps forming next to my spine and it hurts to the touch and my shoulder blades hurt bad most the time..
Me to i had mine February 13 and im having horrible muscle spasms were they did the surgery they said the bolts didn't come loos so i don't know what's wrong
ari lámone muscle spasms are going to be normal for a period of time. They won’t go away for about 2-3 months after your surgery. Hang in there ok!! Everything will be ok ^^
I had my spinal fusion almost a year ago and recently I’ve been getting back pain as well. It’s horrible :(. I Hope you find the reason as to why, and hopefully resolve your pain soon!
I would not recommend it, i had a spinal surgery in 2017. Very painful and had many problems. I ended up having to get all the metal removed and i feel so much better, close to normal again, but still small side effects from it
I had a microdiscoctomy 6weeks ago .The pain has gone but I now have the feeling of electric shocks around the scar area and the feeling of pins and needles in my legs and arms could you please explain why this is
just had my 3rd back surgery. (i have a wonderful surgeon btw) the surgeries themselves were no big deal....almost no pain (surgical pain) but this last one i had a dural tear with CSF leak, of course they had to repair it and now (i'm only just over 2 weeks out) my right lower leg from my knee down is completely numb, i can not walk up or down stairs normally, down with the bad, up with the good ..if i don't i fall, the top of my foot and my toes constantly feel like they are on fire, i feel like i will not recover from this one....and i refuse to live like this (it's numb but it HURTS) btw...i'm only 54 and a pretty small guy 5'7'' and 145 pounds
@@machargs123 it's been a year and 1 day.....and it still isn't any better....pain 24 hours a day...better than when i first came home but it is NEVER under a 4. My leg is still numb and tingly...something i will have the rest of my life...i have to walk with a limp or else i will fall, the leg is very weak, i've lost weight (muscle from my leg) because of it. Not only did they tear the dura but my nerve bundle also came out of the spine.....that's what did all of the damage. I hope you fair better than i did.
oh....and now as an added bonus, i get cramps and spasms that stop me dead in my tracks and have me screaming in pain as well....forgot about that little tidbit....that's been going on for several months now
It was only getting worse every time but you carried on with surgeries anyway... It's always only getting worse in time. Consider the red light therapy, it's very helpful to manage the pain
Just wondering have you had surgery, I was diagnosed with DDD in 2014, I walk with abnormal gait and my left side has slowed down just a bit, right knee is very weak. just recently had another MRI after four years, and now I'm told the same as you, that without surgery I will become an quadriplegic.
Did you have the surgery? I have had a tethered spinal cord for over 20 yrs and was never told I would become paralysed without surgery. I did have it detethered 2x already.
Thank you!!! I really don't like it when doctors say "Only 1% of our surgeries deal with infection complications". WELL WELL WELL! I COULD BE A PART OF THAT 1 PERCENT!!!
I flew to Barcelona for artificial implants and was out of all severe pain in days. My point is, don’t just buy into fusion surgery. Read up on ASD Adjacent Segment Degeneration. There are US options in big Cities where a specialist can thrive.
I had ASD and it caused cauda equina, which eventually would have crippled me. It took two surgeries to put in all the metal and cages, including removing a rib and lamina to be used for autograft. All in all I've had 9 spine surgeries, including 7 fusions. I'm fused from S1 to T9 with titanium rods and screws and two titanium cages replacing two discs. One of the cages has migrated out by over half an inch already. You'd think with doctors knowing about Adjacent Segment Syndrome, they would maybe devise a more long lasting fix. My surgeon who did the last two surgeries in March and May 2018 told me eventually I'll get ASD again. What a great prognosis. Also, since the last surgeries the pain is so intense I have to lie down all day. I've also developed " radicular neuropathy" which is burning leg pain and one of the symptoms of cauda equina I had. Makes me wonder if the cauda equina nerve roots were decompressed properly. I cannot recommend spinal fusion as a treatment for back or leg pain! It just made the pain much worse in my case.
I have rods in my back bc of issues with scoliosis. Got surgery for it and currently at home in pain. Searching up these type'a videos for information c: wish me luck and healing everyone ( I'm 13 btw and I had this issue rightttt about when I was born ) Issues I'm having: Excruciating pain ( very surprised I can still stand and walk a few steps, sit in a chair.. ), Trouble sleeping ( probably because of the pain. I only sleep for 30 minutes to 45 minutes then wake back up ), Loss of appetite ( couldn't eat too much. Also had extreme nausea when I took too much medication in the hospital.. ) anddd hella problems getting comfy in bed . AAAAAA FUCK I CANNOT EXPRESS HOW TERRIBLE IT IS WHEN I LAY IN BEDDDDD HOLY SHIT. JESUS FUCKING CHRIST😵😵 SO. MUCH. PAIN. LIKE I SAID, LI TTLE TO NO COMFORT AT ALL LL. AAAAAA -inhales- also I get really hot really easily...?? Prolly just A/C or something I dunno. -exhales- okay... Anyway... random question. Anyone else got the same method of spinal surgery as I do. Please reply if you did and this optional but lmk what your experience was in hospital and returning home? Thanks.
I had spinal surgery it have been one year today since I had my surgery and let me tell you I have none stop pain morning and night 24/7 pain I neveram going crazy with this none stop pain
Please reconsider spinal fusion surgery! I had surgery for my scoliosis and it has been a nightmare for me!! I still have the same chronic pain I had before surgery and even more issues ! I have been told lie after lie about why the surgery did not work. Now this video tell all! Listen please listen!!! Sometimes I just wish I can open my back and rip everything out myself… I Can not forgive myself for falling for this surgery! Depression has hit so hard. Jesus please help everyone make the right decision ✨🙏🏻✨
You have to help yourself. Jesus has never helped anyone. Don't go down any more spinal surgery routes unless you're going to be paralysed.
@@annimack1591Sad for you that you have no faith. 🙏
What symptoms are you experiencing? I just got diagnosed with scoliosis, and I'm in terrible pain every day.
@emilybennett956 I littery feel like dieing from my last operation. And yes Jesus can help heal anyone.
My fusion was in 2008, I haven't been the same since. I now have adjacent disc disease and spinal stenosis.
Dr Gary Simonds has made the effort here to step outside any ones comfort zone and speak truths. He is balanced with his talk, but simultaneously does not avoid talking about risk. This is a great man and surgeon. Trust me; Sadly they are not all as amicable as this man!
I love that a surgeon is actually discouraging people from getting surgery! Nice job Dr Simonds! You really get it. Spinal surgery is most definitely a last resort for anyone dealing with back pain. Exhaust all conservative options that include multiple opinions from different PTs just like you would from a physician.
He isn't doing that at all...he is explaining in a clear way some of the real risks and possible outcomes people can expect. Of course, no one should go for a surgery anywhere on their body unless they absolutely need it. Those getting a lot of plastic surgery due to vanity are the ones playing with fire for no good reason.
You need go get a spine fusion 😊
Thanks so much, Doctor. I wish other doctors would be as up-front about complications as you.
If only all doctors would be this detailed in providing a full picture of this surgery. The only thing my surgeon said was it will stop the myelopathy from advancing and without surgery it could lead to paralysis. Despite this information, I did not book the surgery. PT, anti inflammatory meds, ice and PT. I also wear a soft collar at bedtime. Everything is going good. Thank you again for your honest assessment
You are a great guy for making a video like this...informing in a calm, articulate way....I have sent the video to a friend that is headed toward lumbar surgery as part of his education on what to expect.
Thanks for this straightforward summary of risks. I had no choice but to have spinal traction and then surgery to repair C5 and C6 fractures, or risk paralysis by doing nothing. But I feel for the tough choice faced by those who are tired of chronic pain, thus whose neurosurgery is elective.
Thanks for sharing your feedback with us.
Beautiful beautiful video thank you so much Dr for your diligence dedication compassion and knowledge
Thank you for making some much more nervous then I was.
You should be!
...than...
A family fiend was the healthiest person I’ve know. Always active, disciplined diet and maintained a healthy weight. He was an avid golfer and developed some nagging back pain. He had back surgery and almost immediately began having issues with gait and digestion. He began losing weight and saw several specialists. None who could figure out what was causing this. He began to decline to when it was very apparent he had nerve damage and was diagnosed with ALS. Over two years he lost most functionality and he died yesterday. He was a good man. I can’t help but think his ALS was triggered or accelerated by the spinal surgery. It was like a light switch. Prior to surgery he was perfectly fine. After surgery he declined.
@@MacchiatoSwirlGirl I’m so sorry. Praying for you
he is telling the truth ,amazing ,its nice for a change
Thank you for the info. Wish I had you for my doctor. 3 neck surgeries and now my thigh is still numb and leg weak. Now my bicep is messed up. No more surgeries for Dr. To get rich while I suffer!
Thank you for a great Vid !! VERY INTERESTING !!!!
Thank you for your honesty doctor.
indeed, this is a rarity, bless him
I have had 4 back surgeries. The neck and the lower back. My neck C2 circumferential disc bulg C3 circumferential disc bulg with a small tear on the right. C4 thru C7 are fused, that took 2 surgeries to complete. My lower back started out with L5 S1 large rupture on the left, They did a discectomy on that, then 2 years later L3, L4 and L5 S1 all ruptured and they did a discectomy and leminectomy on those, it lead to Cronic radiculopathy in my left leg nerve stem, basically permanent nerve damage , my neurologist said i have 6 bad nerves running down my left leg. My left leg and lower back hurt most days. After they fixed my neck I had so much atrophy down my left are and chest area, I literally could not hold up my body weight trying to do a push up. 10 years ago I was feeling pretty down on life in general and I read everything possible on what can i do to help my quality of life, everything pointed to exercise. I was very optimistic but figured what can it hurt, i feel like shit anyway. So I started working out. The first week was fing torture, but my lower back actually started feeling better, so I trucked on. Long story short, today I am a super stud, LOL. just kidding, but I am in great shape and strong as a horse. I am a big guy, 6'4" and just big in general. I went from not being able to hold my body weight up to benching 300 lbs and its actually higher but I digress. So my routine is cardio, (elliptical, spinning bicycle and row machine,) I switch between those 3. No treadmill its way to jarring. Then I lift weights some days and do plyometrics other days, splitting the days between them. Eating right is crucial , keeping the weight down and just eating the proper food. It changed my life, I turned a really bad situation into healthy living and it works 100%, screw the pain killers and pills in general , they help until they don't then your fucked. I thought i would share my story becasue i know how you guys are feeling, it scary and miserable but there is life after back injuries. Just do it, if your not good at working out, get a trainer, i used one for the first 2 years. a good trainer can work wonder. Good luck and never stop fighting, YOU are worth it. I don't want to hear I have a disc buldge and cant do it or a herniated disc and can't do it. I have or had 8 herniated discs in my neck and lower back and 2 disk bulges in my thoracic, Im just saying, By the way, I am 52 so I don't want to hear I am to old. if I can do it and look like this, anyone can. You will be surprised how fast your body recovers and gets into shape. I actually think i may have caused the L3, L4 and L5 S1 to blow out faster by working out, but it hurt like hell, so I I figured, I am either going to fix it or blow fucker out, (that was for the L5 S1, was a little surprised and L3 and L4 but what ever)_ then a doctor will have to fix it. 4 years since my last lower back surgery and going strong.
Gregg Fridline That’s is wonderful,how you get yourself back on track. I will definitely take your advice 👍🏼
Gregg Fridline can i contact you somewhere facebook perhaps?
This is really inspiring! I’m 49 and just had back surgery on the L1-S1 and am going through horrible pain and can hardly walk. You really ought to make some videos about how you did it. I’d watch them for sure. You’ve already got one like and subscribe lol.
@@therightchick yes, if you want. Make sure you say its for back stuff so I know. We get so many fake ones now we tend to ignore. Gregg fridline . Lapeer, or Davison, Michigan, Face Book. not sure which city it shows, im a mile from davison but technicaly in lapeer. Sorry it took so long, I got a notification the other day and saw yours also. I look forward to talking. I didnt notice it until today. I do hope your feeling better. It's a tough thing to go through.
@@PRO.224 stretching helped me a ton at first. It helped the pain and mobility. If you start, don't push it, let your pain tell you when its enough for the day. When i started, I walked for 10 minutes a day, not a fast pace either. I kept adding to it and the better I felt the more I did.
Hi i had a laminectomy, from surgeon mark davies in sydney ..my right arm was parylysed its fine now almost 95 % no pain and i built it back up
Thanks for cheering me up!
I just had spinal fusion from T10 to the pelvic to repair a failure from a previous fusion L2-S1. Within two weeks I developed an issue that has been diagnosed as Kyphosis at T9-T10 at the top of the fusion. Now I’m told I need even further surgery to correct this new issue which will leave me fused from T4 to my pelvic. I am opting to try PT. I don’t want another surgery. So I am going to exhaust all other options before doing so. Once you start down the road of spinal fusion surgeries be sure to exhaust all other options before doing so.
Thank you for sharing.
I've had 4 back fusion surgeries. The first on my L4, L5, and S1. A year later, I started hurting again. My neurosurgeon ordered a CT Myelogram with contrast to see why I was hurting again. He found out that I had mild scoliosis, L4 had burrowed out L5 was still in place, and my S1 was not intact. He recommended that I have a 2nd surgery to fix the problems and go up two vertebraes and anchor rods to both sides of my pelvic bones. I asked him how long before I would be back for another spinal fusion surgery. He said I would probably be back in ten years. I'm 68 years old, and having another spinal fusion surgery when I'm 78 sounded horrible. I asked him what he could do to prevent me from having another back surgery. He said he could go up further to my T10 vertebrae. I had the 2nd surgery, and I was in the hospital for four days instead of 2 days after my first back surgery. I bled a lot during surgery. I had 3 bulbs to drain the fluids out of my body. One week after my 2nd surgery, my T10 vertebrae fractured and collapsed into kyphosis. I went to my post-op appointment and asked his surgical nurse, who saw me if there was a back brace that could help me stand up straight, which she said no. She requested me to have an exray after my appointment. She called me within a couple of hours and told me that the top T10 vertebrae had fractured into kyphosis, and a piece of bone was loose. I was scheduled for immediate back surgery the next morning. My neurosurgeon straightened my T10 vertebrae, and he removed the piece of bone and went up to my T8 vertebrae. I was only in the hospital for 2 days and a week after my 3rd back surgery when my T8 vertebrae fractured and collapsed into kyphosis. I wore a back brace and medical corset after the last two back to back surgeries. I was not mentally or physically able to endure a fourth surgery, which my neurosurgeon agreed. He wanted me to go through another 6 weeks of physical therapy. I got some strength back, but I lived with my broken T8 vertebrae a year. I worked on losing 30 lbs before I went back for my annual checkup with the neurosurgeon. I was down to 133 lbs. I weighed 160 lbs before I had my 2nd surgery and weighed 173 lbs after the surgery. The exrays showed that my T8 vertebrae was still fractured, and my kyphosis had become worse. September 27th, 2022, I had my fourth spinal fusion surgery, which the neurosurgeon straightened my T8 vertebrae and went up to my T4 vertebrae. I'm totally shocked that after my 4th spinal fusion surgery that my back has been successful, and I'm still standing straight. I have done a lot of laying because it's been too painful for me to walk very much. I didn't (BLT) bend lift or twist. I would wear a medical corset whenever I had to leave the house. I see my neurosurgeon tomorrow for my three month check-up. Some people have asked me why I would continue to go to the same neurosurgeon. It wasn't his fault because he didn't have important information that would have helped him prior to my 2nd surgery. I found out that I had Kyphosis in 2011 after I tore my rotater cuff. The physical therapist helped teach me how to use my back muscles because they were atrophied into kyphosis. My medical records didn't show my neurosurgeon that I used to have kyphosis. The most important part of having back surgery is having all of your past surgical procedures on your medical records. I honestly didn't think about telling my neurosurgeon about me previously having kyphosis. I thought that he had all of the medical records from my past. I'm very thankful that I continued to push until I could stand up straight. My back pain tells me when I need to stop doing things. I have read some heart-felt stories that have similar or much worse outcomes. I pray that my story will hopefully help others.
@@pamelawilson407 Thank you for sharing your history. I've had 3 back surgeries due a tumors called schwannomas in the spinal cord in 2009,2010 n 2015. I'm in constant pain. My new neurosurgeon says that i had kyphosis due the laminectomies from the past 3 surgeries. He ordered CTs and XRs and recommended surgery, I have done everything for the pain but nothing really works. What would be your advice to me, go ahead with surgery o stop even thinking about it Thank you in advance
In last 4years I did 3 spine surgery from L1,L2,L3,L4,L5 & T 12 ,each time I am getting worsening and all screws loose,i wish watching your video before I did the surgery ,after 3 surgery my legs cramp,I can’t walk more then 5 minutes and my life is a nightmare 😢
🧏🏿♀️Doctor, thank you very much for your kind candor & your generous time.
Yes, I still want decompression surgery. 😊
Thank god I got the most expert doctor to do my surgery, he never had complication with any patient
What is his name??!! :(
sio eati I don’t know the name yet but soon I will
It must be the God himself who will be doing your surgery....
Alex M hopefully , my surgery is in exactly 6 days
The message of this video was complications can come regardless of a surgeon's training!! It's always somewhat of a gamble. But I am happy for your outcome and mine as well. I'm just one week post-op!!
What the surgeon forgot to mention is that when there's fluid leak, the result is vertigo due to an imbalance in the cerebral spinal fluid.
I had CSF leak, vertigo, and clots due to internal bleeding. All in all I had three operations in 9 days!
Thank God I am able to walk but I am in constant pain. Probably due scarring tissue.
What must we then do Dr if stretches and exercises does not help or cure the lower back pain due to injury
Hum well yes exactly what you are saying in regards to the leak and it is contained at the lower level T12 L1 I believe they won’t touch it they don’t want to touch it also when I had the pain pump when they had removed the trial, I endured a spinal leak as well. I did have a doctor drain it headaches one away I was good, after I had the pain pump for seven years and it just quit working due to a malfunction I now have the tubing still in me. No one will touch it nor take it out. I get it but what I don’t get is the serum or they say maybe hematoma still buildup in my back I hurt 24 seven as well as the pain in left arm leg cramping of my toes as well. Any idea what I should do I’m lost.
4 weeks after my lower back surgery, infusion poster interior but I still have pain my sergeant said you have to wait and be passion so what I do
Regard
very honest evaluation
I had lower lumbar surgery and bilateral pelvic fusion as a fit 40 yr old triathlete and now in a wheelchair most of the time.
😢
i have mulipule sclerois for about 8 years got injured at work 1 year ago had a neck operation and two lower back operations after first operation screw got lose after going back to work few days had another back operation to repair end off nov last year ms seems to get wose pain back in legs at the back can ms worsen after three operations up to date still not able go back to work have pain lower back how long will it take to recover traffic cop
Thanks so much Doctor
Thank you
Even with world renowned surgeons, things can go wrong. People react differently, none of my fusions actually fused (that's not the doctors fault) and nerve damage (hurts soooo badly) and affects arm control. My two surgeries failed miserably and I'll never be able to work again, and I'll never have another surgery unless it's life threatening. My life was tremendously painful to start, but I now have worse but different pain :-( Disabled is a new way of life and of course that comes with "situational depression" because it's hard to give up your old life to a new life where you can't clean a bathroom, you have to split it over 3 days because you can only do so much per day. Heating pads, I spend about 6 hours per day on a heating pad. So please do EVERYTHING you can before you submit to surgery. Sometimes doctors have no control over how your body reacts (or doesn't in my case).
Hey, i think we faced the similar problem
Hi Pam. I appreciated this post; Because is tells the truth about your experience! I am in the same place as you were right now. Been offered L5/S1 fusion and decompression. Lived with Spondylolisthesis since 18 yrs. But have managed my problem and have had an active life! Recently acquired exaggerated lordosis which has pinched the nerve much worse! Am now 58 yrs. Despite loads of pressure from doctors, friend and family have started an exercise program which seems to be re aligning my spine. I live and hope. Thank you for your advice!
😢😢😢 I never wanted spine surgery but had a cyst pressing on my spinal cord. I had so much pain in my leg. When he went in, also had a herniated disc. It's like oh God. So now I have a blood clot in that space. So being cut again is just disgusting. So yeah, it is the worst.
My doctor told me all these. So any doctor who doesn't tell you, run away
What about shooting pain that is in my left foot and burning sensation in my shin
I've been having this problem for years, after a Plif expansion.
Recognition also matters Thank you.
Great doctor _my attorney wants to close the case 4 months after a terrible crash l got hit from behind at 70 miles because l delaying L4 L5 surgery do to me getting better help me or advise me please .
I have a surgery and now I am passing out frequently what that have to do with my surgery
Thank you Dr. Gary Simonds, I am scheduled to go for lumber spinal stenosis surgery in July (2019), I already had reservations, you have helped me making my decision. I decline this procedure.
Checking in.... did you ever do the surgery? I'm starting to have reservations too but am in so much pain 😩 how are you managing?
@@annimack1591 No, after meeting an old orthopedic surgeon I realized the situation. I went for surgery alone from Am-Can border to Boston. I was on the surgery table on July 12th, after laminectomy & fusion of 2 vertebra I was discharged from the hospital, took a cab to the bus station, after 6 hours trip I was in Bangor, a car ride of 3 hours brought me home. Today I can walk for miles, be on my legs for hours. I work out with the weights and my stationary bike almost days a week. All this was unthinkable a year ago. I am reaching 73.
@@erijqudus1960 they must push you out of the hospital fast. I was in 13 days first time for my 8th surgery and 11 days for my 9th, including 6 days in the ICU. Back surgery is considered major and most people stay at least 4+ days!
@@erijqudus1960 You must be amazing to get back home after your back surgery. What day were you discharged, day 4?
@@annimack1591 I was asked to leave after 2 nights, I requested for one more night, so I was out after 3 nights. It was not easy for a drugged person to catch a cab, then make it to the bus terminal, and then go on a long journey to home.
I ride broncs for a living does anybody that has done this think it's a good idea if I want to keep going or should I wait. I'm 26 and have a good amount of atrophy in my riding shoulder and bicep. Has anybody tried decompression? I want to avoid surgery but I'm losing strength and muscle by the day. Doc wants to do disc replacement at c5 and c6
I want in for two level cervical disc replacement something went wrong where I could’ve been paralyzed my whole body he had to stop the operation something about Nerve singles were stopped he tried for six hours to get it to go back on finally he said forget it there’s nothing else I could do he stitched me up and magically while he put last stitch in nerves came back alive but now my left side of my body is weak please tell me I’m going to get my strength back please tell me this is not permanent it’s November 15 today I got this done November 11
I 've had two spine surgeries front and rear and still have significant back pain
Same here…
Very true and he said well
I have a big issue in L zone. My neurosurgeon recommended to do this surgery. Now I’m really afraid to go to that. IDK what to do. What will happen if don’t do the surgery? Dear doctor… please explain. I live in Sri Lanka.
I had spine surgery and have awful headaches. It's been a month. What can my dr do to help
Can Dural tears can lead to migraines if leaking persist… or is that something else?
Unfortunately for the many issues I have in my lower back, I have had 2 falls with broken kneecap, torn meniscus and broken elbow. I am afraid to walk at all. The mri wasn’t promising. Stenosis, pinched nerves, bulging disc and a herniated disc and more. The stenosis is bad as looking at the mri from an above looking down, we can’t see the spinal cord.
Sure we’ll do the injections, no pt for me since my fall injuries aren’t healing well.
I want to be pain free, but most of all I don’t want to fall anymore.
Now what?
I had a laminectomy C3-c7. I was told to not lift, fall or even get jolted or I would be paralyzed.
Had c5-c7 fusion in 2002, it still hurts quite a bit and I haven’t had any good sleep in almost 20 years. I’ll take weed over opiates it seems to help more without the addiction
This is the exact surgery I need.... if you had to do it again, would you?
Thank-you. I am feeling very fortunate after a c6-c7 fracture, dislocated/locked facet, and central cord syndrome following a fall from a horse. So far I have minimal damage- just hand and arm weakness/numbness and trouble talking/swallowing. I feel so very lucky and amazed at how surgeons work on such a tiny area with such delicacy and precision. Thanks for this great video series. It has helped me put the brakes on my intense desire to do things I shouldn't be doing at 7 weeks post-accident.
I need help I have the best and multiple insirancee
Wonderful video thank you, can a Laminectomy be done again if it doesn't work out the first time?
You could just go ahead and fuse your spine 😊
@@imveryhungry112 Thanks that is what I need now, a fusion.
Unfortunately my spine fused due to inflammation in a way that I lost flexibility in all of my joints and have incredible muscular stiffness. All I say it hurts.
Hye... Thank You for the good explaination... My name is Jazmeen and I did L5S1 TLIF Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion surgery on April 2022 around January 2023 my legs are not like before... I have this Restless Legs n terrible at night... up until now, I am feeling that my legs are getting weaker... Can You help me to understand this condition... I am taking Magnesium Bisglycinate Chelate and Vitamin B supplement but I still feel the restless legs, cant really sleep ... n feeling weak.. Can You help me to explain why this is happening??
My complication after a non fused L5/S1 discectomy, facetectomy, and laminectomy was an epidural hematoma. Probably because I rushed to begin PT and overdid it. I was in agony and caught a taxi to A&E (what we call ER in NZ). I am not sure if there was long term damage.
A few years after surgery I began really struggling to walk. My right leg weakens, hurts, and gets numb. MRI summary said no change from the previous one. I ordered the actual radiologist report and compared it to an earlier one. Mild to moderated rated foraminal stenosis right side L5/5 has become severe rated. That's a change, so I got my GP to write to them.
Now the surgeon says there is deterioration and is recommending PLIF. That's progress. Downside is I moved house, so the case is not under his district health board, i.e., I've been referred to orthopaedics at the new one. Hopefully they read his letter and I am not back to square one like the previous time I moved house. Fusion is not certain to be effective, but being able to walk okay again would be great. I am a bit more wary than last time though, because I am 53 now.
Here in NZ they cite all the failed surgeries in the USA as a reason to avoid operating. Very conservative and my GP said the bar to get surgery is high and to get a second one is extremely rare. A cynic would say they use it as a way to save money. I have known for a long time fusion is probably going to be needed for me. It took years for orthopaedics to see it that way. Possible wasted years, because I have been laid up while they feed me tramadol and get me doing DIY PT at home. Scrapheap of expended human labour, when I could have been working and contributing.
P.S. With lumbar spine stuff when it gets nasty they always want to stick their fingers up the patient's butt hole to rule out CES. With all this modern tech they still resort to that. I dunno.
Don’t forget surgery induced Scoliosis flat back syndrome. Permanent nerve damage and a complete loss of faith in the medical profession.
Ive been lucky, I know 3 of my surgeries worked, the last one, I came out with nerve damage, not sure how it happened. Investigate surgeons, my first doctor was considered one of the best in michigan, he did 2 of my surgeries and both went great. He passed away on me so I had to use another, he did good for one for sure, last one im not sure if the damage came from the blown disks or surgery. It blew out in the same exact spot. Do PT and streches, it helps so much. I was 320 lbs, drank everyday and took pain killers. I figured I'd better try something different or im not going to be around much longer. I still have issues but can deal with it better. Just try it, and do what you can. I pray it helps as much as its helped me!!
I think i'm the unlucky one
OMG Thank God FINALLY!!! Thank you so much for your comment about flat back syndrome!!! I have it and I just had my 3rd back surgery L5-L6 …I have desperately wanted to discuss with someone else that has had the same problem!!! I would so appreciate knowing how you are …I pray that you are doing better and even better well…Thank you so much for posting…💐
@@juliebrown3710 I am doing ok. This has been a real struggle but I am learning how to cope for me this has been 5 years
Im 20 and have had alot of strains to my back. I get back pain everyday. Today I find out what's wrong with my back...I'm kinda scared.
UCSF NEUROSURGERY best care anywhere. I had a 4 level Cspine fusion I have titanium cage. 2 years later 3 level posterior L spine fusion pins and rods. Both surgeries were long 5+ hours inpatient 5 days each time. Lots of post op woes drains erc.....but I felt better as soon as I woke up. Especially L spine. Im in my 50s. I would do it again if I had UCSF.
The rheumatologist diagnosed ASIA syndrome, due to titanium screws in l4-l5, I have pain in the area, joint pain, extreme fatigue, dermatitis. However, the orthopedic surgeon told me that ASIA syndrome is not accepted as a formally recognized entity, that it is most likely a periprosthetic infection. Is there ASIA syndrome due to metallic implants? thank you so much.
I got Spinal fusion in 2017 with Dr Lenke in NYC. I don't leave my bed anymore due to pain and discomfort. I'm 32 years old.
I had a cancerous mass removed around the C2 and cervical laminectomy and spinal decompression and fusion of the C2-C4, with plates and screws. Because of the very delicate area of the mass, the Dr. said I could of been parylized but I had no choice for the surgery I had to remove it. The surgeon did a great job, its three months now and I have pain but nothing terrible. I had 23 radiation treatments to my neck after the surgery, that was way worse then the surgery itself by far, I was sick the whole time. Best of luck to anyone out there getting this surgery 🤞🏻, dont be scared, there are many success stories.😉👍🏻
Thanks for your useful info. How you fee now? I hope you would be getting better.
Thank you for the words of encouragement! I am getting surgery in two days and am really nervous, but your kind words really helped! Hope you are doing well and wishing you all the best! ❤️💖💝💗💝💖❤
@@nataliehannis1114 Yes im doing great its been almost 2 years since my surgery, also my cancer hasnt returned , do you have a cancerous mass? Everything will be ok, my surgery was very complicated and it was fine im sure youll be fine , try not to worry, i know its impossible but remember many people are in the same boat as you, best wishes i will keep you in my thoughts , please let me know when you are done how you are doing❤️❤️
@@nataliehannis1114 How are you, how did the surgery go?💐🌷👍🏻
Yours is different because you have cancer. Most people are getting elective spinal fusions because they have a little nerve pain!! 😅
Does anyone have high blood pressure and headache after operation? I had operation c7 c1 about 10 month ago, but still suffering with headache and take medication against high blood pressure
I know I'm a little late with this answer but you may have had another underlying condition. I hope it's all figured out.
After back surgery L4 L5 I'm numb on my private parts the but and testicles about a 2 weeks so for they say it's gonna take time for feeling to come back but idk what are suggestions you think I'll be getting it back
Abraham Robles yes it will take 6 to 8 weeks relax dont worry .
Upper back work out an stretching sometimes helps
I feel like backing out now. Mine is soon but the pain is so severe plus my mobility is significantly affected
I'm supposed to have TLIF L3-L5 & wondering if anyone else on here has had it? I'm thinking of backing out now.
Did you have the surgery?
Had micro discectomy/ laminectomy on l5 s1 one year ago. Slightly reherniated and disc has decent annular tear. Have had massive inflammation and muscle spasms up my spine. Spine has been stiff as a stick but gaining some movement back through extremely limited exercises. Still can’t bend. Not sure now but my pain is off to the side from my incision. Not sure if it’s from the laminectomy site. Sometimes the pain is dull and other times it feels like I’m being stabbed with a lit candle. Not sure if it’s scar tissue irritating it, or it’s the inflammation and sensitivity from my disc being injured. If anyone has ideas, or similar experiences please comment.
I still experience your situation..it have been a year.....i also dont know how to deal with this situation as doctors keep telling me to exercise..but no improvement than keep getting worse..and unfortunately i cant stand or walk without support since i came out from surgery
It sounds like some form of peripheral neuropathy, stemming from the surgery!
I feel like something is wrong feels like movement or a popping in my back I have had 2surgerys having rods what should do
I was told that's from scar tissue, and calcium build up from my surgeon. It sucks.
Same problem, however removing my hardware would necessitate a 14" cut again.
I got surgery 3 weeks ago. I saw a little dropof fluid on the bandage . I hope it not infected.
I’m going through horrible pain, I’ve been suffering from, I’ve had 3 failed cervical disc surgeries at C5-6! Now with “the Opioid crisis” I don’t get any more meds & I don’t know what to go now or where to go! I’ve followed all of the rules & now?????😩😫😖
I 've had same problem except at L3 L4 and L5s. I know your pain but i still get my hydro s. I couldn't get out of bed without them. May God bless and help you. I don't think anyone knows what we go thru except us. Every Doctor thinks they saved you because they use us to get more people just like us.
Good they been honest. 😮🎉 am waiting for cervical spinal stenosis decompression surgery and they saying ohh everything's going to be fine afterwards etc etc hmmm?
I am having pain in my lower back is that worrying
I had an L4-5 ALIF fusion 3 years ago. My back feels "decent ". However over the past year I have had a very "irritating" pain in my neck area. I'm thinking its something stemming from the fusion since I didnt have this feeling in my neck before. Extremely upsetting. I'm 34 and I dont think I can get another surgery.
My neck was fused 4 years ago and is doing fine, my L5 is terrible, the nerve pain on my left side is causing me so much pain I just want let go. The doctor wants me to have a spine stimulator to help with the pain 🤨 and I’m going to refused due to the effects I had with the VNS for epilepsy. I would prefer to have a fusion since the one in my neck was successful.
@@leslieupshaw226 Hope your not suffering to bad Im in the exact same boat you are L5S1 and 3 vertebra in neck 7 years ago Just had to get new extras and MRI today for a bunch of new issues I've been having over the last 2 years that have escalated
@@johnmitchell8925 I hope you feel better soon. I have been taking Alpha lipoic acid 600mg it helps with the nerves and it has been working great for me.
Please tell what brand
Had spine surgery as I got cauda equina.three years gone by and I have numbness tingling burning in foot and calf.can hardly move my toes and I exercise everyday. Can anyone help
I'm afraid cauda equina syndrome causes so much damage, it's effects are long lasting, even after surgery, and in my case the symptoms are much worse. Unfortunately doctors don't want to know about it!
2 months post discectomy, I noticed some pain on the opposite side of my back and was told it would go away; the pain level is now a 10 on most days. Is there a real solution for herniated discs???
Try accupunture and exercise
What do I do now after FSS after multiple epidural injections, nerve root blocks and multiple spinal fluid leaks and three spine fusions surgeries later the horrific problems continue now I’m being faced with the doctor advising a nerve ablation procedure is needed. I’m highly concerned because the aftermath of epidural injections in my neck left me with Essential Tremors since 2017 because of that I’m highly concerned having anyone get that close to the nerves in my spine. “Is it just me or is there anyone else out there experiencing such a huge amount of bad luck with their spine. To date I’m in pain from my neck to buttocks every day. Increasingly getting worse since my last fusion/laminectomy in January 2017 and I’ve developed adult scoliosis which is very minimal right now not really affecting my spine fusions at this time anyway. I can not do anything physical without suffering afterwards.
I have had nerve ablations....were very successful. They only block pain from that immediate area...does not help rediculopathy. I fortunately found a master spine surgeon who has done 5 fusions so far over 15 yrs but everytime gets me back to normal. Good luck...keep searching for good medical care...if one isn't working go to the next.
I have back fusion doctor told me was going to be ok but it's not now the pain is worst and I fill always like nom and head eiks
My surgeon screwed two screws in my disc i had 13 month of infection and i have grinding sound and all that is visible on x-ray but what is problem doc saying all is good so i got 16 screws and rods i cant wipe my ass like normal man yeah crazy
Legionnaire I also had spinal surgery in the legion and my side effects are fucked up.. I'm limited
wish I had it to do over again it's been 7 years L5 S1 and 3 fused in the neck Just had a new MRI today and e ray of the right knee that's been killing me ,☠hips and legs are locking up on me can't do much walking or sitting because of sciatica I just don't think I can go thru this again.Get lots of opinions folks from lots of spine specialist before letting them fuse you😢
I got a sciatica belt. Helps so much!
What a very clear explanation of potential complications. I wish there were numbers available by which we could better understand risk percentages. When we say "common" what percentage is that?
Unfortunately, it can be hard to quantify because every patient is unique and may have additional health issues to consider.
@@CarilionClinicVA how about scoliosis surgery spinal fusion in an otherwise healthy 40 yr old male adult? Could you at least give an estimate %, and even in the advent of a complication how successful do revision surgeries typically go to resolve the issue for the same age demographic?
I have a sad story to tell..
I got scoliosis surgery in 2018, unfortunately it didn't work well as what i expected.. i become paraplegic after that surgery..
It's almost 3 years from that day, yet until now i don't know what's going on.. this february will be my celebration of "3 years being a paraplegic"..
It's hard for me to accept the truth, while others success surgeries occured.. i often regretting my decision, but i realise that i have to accept this truth, and continue my new normal life..
Am i the unlucky one?
How's your opinion about this?
Hello Roissyah. How are you doing now? My brother in law is also suffering with the same problem. He met with an accident in August 2020 and is still unable to walk. His lower body is numb and he is suffering with severe pain. Physiotherapy is going on. I don't know when he will be able to walk?
So very sorry.
Sir I had microdiscectomy on L5-S1 and its been 5 months of hard grueling pain with no relief. Seen 3 Neurosurgeons and three other physicians and they all have indifference of opinion. All I know is I'm weak below the waist, hurt so bad, meds don't alleviate the pain, I'm paying for it with lack of sleep and have lost my job over this. Tired of the run-around and pick docs with insurance guidelines. Any suggestions???
James R. Rivera Sr. Does pain goes to legs??
@@sayeen2002 yes, left and is worse than before the surgery.
Bollox I went in for micro discectomy , SURGERY NIGHTMARE, ENDED UP WITH A CEREBAL SPINAL FLUID LEAK ,, THE DR WENT INTO REPAIR IT ENDED UP WITH CAUDIA EQINA SYNDROME.
I have bilat. severe foraminal stenosis post fusion l5s1 due to bone graft growing into foramen.How common is this?How is it treated?
Learn to live with it or get a spinal fusion 😊 that's your options 😊
I just had a spinal fusion surgery November 25, there’s bumps forming next to my spine and it hurts to the touch and my shoulder blades hurt bad most the time..
Me to i had mine February 13 and im having horrible muscle spasms were they did the surgery they said the bolts didn't come loos so i don't know what's wrong
ari lámone muscle spasms are going to be normal for a period of time. They won’t go away for about 2-3 months after your surgery. Hang in there ok!! Everything will be ok ^^
@@29Sly.fox08 ok
@@29Sly.fox08 muscle spasms are the worst
No surgery for me
I had a spinal fusion 2 years ago and just recently I'm getting bad back pain, i haven't had pain in over a year
I had my spinal fusion almost a year ago and recently I’ve been getting back pain as well. It’s horrible :(. I Hope you find the reason as to why, and hopefully resolve your pain soon!
It may be adjacent segment syndrome. The disc above the fusion takes all the strain, causing pain and narrowing of the spinal canal.
sameee how are you feeling now???
Thank you so much I was very hesitant. I rather live in pain the rest of my life and keep whatever functions I have left.
You might just need a spine fusion 😊
I'm the same. You couldn't pay me to have spinal fusion.
I, on the other hand, had 3 spinal cord surgeries for intramedullary pilocytic astrocytoma and now I'm paraplegic
I am so sorry :(
had the spinal leak. OMG it made me very very sick.. it was horrible.
How do you feel now 😢
I would not recommend it, i had a spinal surgery in 2017. Very painful and had many problems. I ended up having to get all the metal removed and i feel so much better, close to normal again, but still small side effects from it
I had a microdiscoctomy 6weeks ago .The pain has gone but I now have the feeling of electric shocks around the scar area and the feeling of pins and needles in my legs and arms could you please explain why this is
Lindsey Clark it seems like reherniation . Confirm it from Dr.
Failed spine surgery!!! 😊
My l5s1 disk has four operations, the last operation fosion air is now two years old, it is very intense.😭😭😭😭 PLZZZZ help me.
just had my 3rd back surgery. (i have a wonderful surgeon btw) the surgeries themselves were no big deal....almost no pain (surgical pain) but this last one i had a dural tear with CSF leak, of course they had to repair it and now (i'm only just over 2 weeks out) my right lower leg from my knee down is completely numb, i can not walk up or down stairs normally, down with the bad, up with the good ..if i don't i fall, the top of my foot and my toes constantly feel like they are on fire, i feel like i will not recover from this one....and i refuse to live like this (it's numb but it HURTS) btw...i'm only 54 and a pretty small guy 5'7'' and 145 pounds
I just had my surgery yesterday and had a dura tear they got it right away I feel ok am about to get on my feet how are u now my friend
@@machargs123 it's been a year and 1 day.....and it still isn't any better....pain 24 hours a day...better than when i first came home but it is NEVER under a 4. My leg is still numb and tingly...something i will have the rest of my life...i have to walk with a limp or else i will fall, the leg is very weak, i've lost weight (muscle from my leg) because of it. Not only did they tear the dura but my nerve bundle also came out of the spine.....that's what did all of the damage. I hope you fair better than i did.
oh....and now as an added bonus, i get cramps and spasms that stop me dead in my tracks and have me screaming in pain as well....forgot about that little tidbit....that's been going on for several months now
It was only getting worse every time but you carried on with surgeries anyway...
It's always only getting worse in time.
Consider the red light therapy, it's very helpful to manage the pain
Maybe you just need to get another spinal fusion? 😊
I will become paralysed without surgery. I have a Tethered spinal cord and can hardly walk and have bladder and bowel issues.
Just wondering have you had surgery, I was diagnosed with DDD in 2014, I walk with abnormal gait and my left side has slowed down just a bit, right knee is very weak. just recently had another MRI after four years, and now I'm told the same as you, that without surgery I will become an quadriplegic.
@Patrick Johnson they left my cauda equina far too long. Most of the damage was irreversible!
Did you have the surgery? I have had a tethered spinal cord for over 20 yrs and was never told I would become paralysed without surgery. I did have it detethered 2x already.
Sorry good doctor now there is no way I get surgery on my back
Thank you!!! I really don't like it when doctors say "Only 1% of our surgeries deal with infection complications". WELL WELL WELL! I COULD BE A PART OF THAT 1 PERCENT!!!
On day 5 post-op a screw broke, so I had to go back in. I'm 3 days post op from the reparative surgery and feel progress.
How are you feeling now?
You'll probably need a few more surgeries 😊
I flew to Barcelona for artificial implants and was out of all severe pain in days. My point is, don’t just buy into fusion surgery. Read up on ASD Adjacent Segment Degeneration. There are US options in big Cities where a specialist can thrive.
I had ASD and it caused cauda equina, which eventually would have crippled me. It took two surgeries to put in all the metal and cages, including removing a rib and lamina to be used for autograft. All in all I've had 9 spine surgeries, including 7 fusions. I'm fused from S1 to T9 with titanium rods and screws and two titanium cages replacing two discs. One of the cages has migrated out by over half an inch already.
You'd think with doctors knowing about Adjacent Segment Syndrome, they would maybe devise a more long lasting fix. My surgeon who did the last two surgeries in March and May 2018 told me eventually I'll get ASD again. What a great prognosis. Also, since the last surgeries the pain is so intense I have to lie down all day. I've also developed " radicular neuropathy" which is burning leg pain and one of the symptoms of cauda equina I had. Makes me wonder if the cauda equina nerve roots were decompressed properly.
I cannot recommend spinal fusion as a treatment for back or leg pain! It just made the pain much worse in my case.
Implants? First surgery?
I’m 13 years old and I have to get spinal fusion surgery in a few months. I’m so scared
Prayers for you. I may have to get it soon due to scoliosis from birth. I feel scared too and I'm 56.
😢 sorry.
I'm scheduled to have c2-t2 fusion & c3-6 laminectories
You are going to have excruciating pain
omg you just exposed everything
I have rods in my back bc of issues with scoliosis. Got surgery for it and currently at home in pain. Searching up these type'a videos for information c: wish me luck and healing everyone ( I'm 13 btw and I had this issue rightttt about when I was born )
Issues I'm having: Excruciating pain ( very surprised I can still stand and walk a few steps, sit in a chair.. ),
Trouble sleeping ( probably because of the pain. I only sleep for 30 minutes to 45 minutes then wake back up ), Loss of appetite ( couldn't eat too much. Also had extreme nausea when I took too much medication in the hospital.. ) anddd hella problems getting comfy in bed
. AAAAAA FUCK I CANNOT EXPRESS HOW TERRIBLE IT IS WHEN I LAY IN BEDDDDD HOLY SHIT. JESUS FUCKING CHRIST😵😵 SO. MUCH. PAIN. LIKE I SAID, LI
TTLE TO NO COMFORT AT ALL LL. AAAAAA -inhales- also I get really hot really easily...?? Prolly just A/C or something I dunno.
-exhales- okay... Anyway... random question. Anyone else got the same method of spinal surgery as I do. Please reply if you did and this optional but lmk what your experience was in hospital and returning home? Thanks.
How are you now?
How is your flexibillity now?
the future spondylosis success stories
How to scare you into wearing your brace
I had spinal surgery it have been one year today since I had my surgery and let me tell you I have none stop pain morning and night 24/7 pain I neveram going crazy with this none stop pain