Pardon me for asking again

  • Thread starter Thread starter motmcd
  • Start date Start date
M

motmcd

Guest
As a result of a serious mountain bike accident, I had 3-level ACDF (C5-T1) 12 years ago. Because of the extent of neurological deficit, I've been advised by three different doctors to have another surgery for 2-level ACDF (C4-5,6). I have an appointment today with a fourth doctor for a final opinion. This second surgery will result in total fusion of my cervical spine, bar one, C2-3. Can anyone tell me what range of motion I could expect post surgery? I'm told 50% of motion comes from the first cervical level, and that I should expect to see the greatest reduction in motion regarding looking up, and looking down. Can anyone comment on this from personal experience. Advanced thanks for the input.
 
You might have better luck asking this question on the spinal cord disorder board. That is the board that deals with the upper back and neck area. This board is promarily the lower lurabar area, so you might not get the answer that you are seeking. The spinal folks are probably better equipted to help you with your problems and your questions.

Good luck.
 
I am fused C3-C6 (2 different surgeries) and while it has taken time, my range of motion is great. You might want to ask them what kind of plate they will use, are they taking out the lower plate and putting one long straight or curved plate, or will they be able to attach the new upper plate to one of the lower vertebrae. You'll learn how to tuck your chin to swallow....and this may be an annoying issue for a year or so. Always have fluid with any food, especially bread :) Since you may have some residual scar tissue in the neck, recovery may be a little more difficult this time. Turning your head (like driving) will take many months of slow improvement so don't get discouraged.

Sorry to hear you are facing another surgery....is this anterior or posterior? I assume anterior.
 
Back
Top