I have to have neck surgery. C5-C6 Anterior cervical decompresion and fusion (ACDF)?

Question

I have degenerative disc disease with cervical stenosis/spondyisis causing a prolapsed disc that's applying pressure on my cervical cord. I have the basic info frm DR.s and the web.looking for more personal info. I'm already in severe pain, muscle spasms,numbness, tingling, specialist says that I have profound weakness on my right side nd slight on the left. For pain right now I'm currently taking Celebrex 100 mg, Oxycontin 2x20mg 3 times a day 12hr release percacets 5/500mg 1-2 every 4-6 hours etc etc. ANY INFO APPRECIATED kinda scared I'm 35yrs old 3 kids been off work for 11/2 yrs. Hope I gave enough info. PLS HELP THANX

Answer 1

Before having surgery, I would suggest you get a second opinion.  I also have degenerative disc disease.  I got a second opinion and was able to get injections in my neck rather than have surgery.  It took care of the pain and the compression which caused me the spasms, numbness and tingling.

If you do have to have surgery, make sure that the orthopedic surgeon you choose has a lot of experience doing this procedure. Make sure to get specific information about the surgery and what the recovery will include... ie, time to heal, physical therapy...etc.  The more knowledge you have, the better prepared you will be.

Good luck and I hope you feel better soon,

Tex