Don't have spine surgery if...

If you are thinking about having spine surgery, you need to watch this video. Be careful if you encounter these situations as you discuss surgery with your surgeon:
0:25 - I. The 'pushy' surgeon.
1:54 - II. The surgical 'guarantee.'
3:04 - III. Unclear rationale for surgery.
4:27 - IV. Risks/ benefits of surgery not clearly discussed.
5:15 - V. A 'complicated' surgery instead of a simpler option.
6:30 - VI. A 'newer' or 'cutting-edge' surgical technique/ device.
Check out this video about the RISKS of spine surgery:
• RISKS of spine surgery
www.MustafaKhanMD.com
DISCLAIMER:
The contents of this KZbin video/ channel (including but not limited to: Images, text, graphics, links, other materials) are for educational/ informational purposes ONLY. This content is NOT professional medical advice, and is NOT meant to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Watching this video does not establish a patient-doctor relationship. The content of this KZbin video should not be used to make judgments/ decisions regarding diagnosis or treatment. As with any medical condition, SEEK THE PROFESSIONAL OPINION OF A PHYSICIAN FOR A THOROUGH EVALUATION. All Images, text, graphics, audio, video etc. are SUBJECT TO COPYRIGHT.

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

If you liked this video, you can also check out The Four Myths of Spine Surgery: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oYXKnYlnbJVjj8k RISKS of spine surgery: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mH69nIdspZV4jpI

[@tammiegreen6046]

I will. I just seen your response. Tomorrow I find out if it’s fusing! A long wait. Surgeon concerned it may not. I’ve had 3 cervical spine surgeries but this one was really rough. On me & surgeon

[@tammiegreen6046]

Thx I enjoyed! What state is your practice in?

[@RoadMechanic]

very few surgeons will spend more than 5 minutes with you. If you ask them questions they get defensive.

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

This is unfortunately true for a lot of surgeons. I should make a video about it. Thank you for reaching out and commenting.

[@user-hf8ie8mf3n]

You got the wrong surgeon.

[@Uhg-hk8ss]

Not my experience at all. You need a new surgeon if possible.

[@privateye002]

I wish I had seen this video 9 years ago. When I had decompression surgery to my L5-S1, I was never told I would probably have to have spinal surgery in about 10 years. I am 9 years post op and about to have fusion in that area due to the significant slipping and now I am not in a position to take off the time and get the care I need. You are a God send and I am glad I found your channel.

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for your kind words, I am honored. Wish you the best 🙏

[@Sheila_M61]

I'm so glad I ran across this video because Im going for a second opinion before having surgery on my c-spine. I have retrolithesis at C4-C5, with bone spurs in and out of the vertebrae, severe foraminal narrowing at C4-5 , bilateral C5-7 foraminal stenosis, and moderate cord compression. Most of the discs are gone in my c-spine. Last August I consulted with a neurosurgeon and told him that I did not want any type of fusion. He told me that there would be no fusion, he would only go in and put a disc in the space between the two vertebrae, and remove all the bone spurs. When I received the letter from my insurance company about the pre-authorization, it stated clearly that his plan of action was to fuse two levels in my c-spine and he was going to use a material for the disc space that my insurance would not cover. Since it was a partial denial by my insurance company I didn't have the surgery and I sure am glad that I read what the insurance company said because the doctor had flat out lied to me! If I had agreed to the surgery without checking on things first I would have come out with a horrible surgery that I did not want! I started physical therapy 2 weeks ago and I'm already feeling a lot better. My PT seems to have hope that I can realign the vertebrae through physical therapy and using one of those expanding collar things, kind of like traction. I found one online for $5. In 2001 I had bilateral sacroiliac fixation with large screws and washers. It literally gave my life back because I wasn't able to walk for about 2 years prior to the surgery. The orthopedic doctor who performed that surgery had told me that if I chose to have the surgery done it would put more pressure on the lumbar discs and would cause them to wear sooner than they normally would. And they did, but I expected it! I don't have any discs left in my lumbar spine, the vertebrae are pretty much fused together. I had no choice though because before the SI surgery the pain was so intense that I would pass out, and I couldn't walk. Because of all of the disc and bone loss I have went from 5 ft 8 in tall to 5 ft 4 in tall over the last 10 years. But I have continued to stay as active as I possibly can. For the most part I stay busy at least 12 hours a day. Most doctors can't believe that I am still able to walk, they are thoroughly shocked. Staying as physically active as possible will strengthen the muscles parallel to your spine and keep you upright and mobile. It's good to always ask lots of questions about any upcoming surgery to know exactly what the doctor will be doing. But not only that, you should also read the pre-authorization letter from your insurance company, that will explain everything the doctor is going to be doing. Sometimes you will find out things that the doctor didn't tell you! Just like what happened to me!

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for your very thoughtful comment, appreciate it. Yes, it is important to consider other options before committing to surgery, to see if any alternatives may be available. It is not unusual for patients with severe pain/ disability due to sciatica/ back or neck pain to get better with nonsurgical means. Physical therapy, medications and pain-management procedures can improve the symptoms dramatically. It is great to see that you are doing well, good luck to you in the future!

[@user-gx6iv5si5w]

😊i had spine surgery April 18, may 18, it was to start im doing . better but im doing betterl 😊by the grace😮 of god!!

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Great to hear that you are doing well! Good luck! 👍

[@jcaleca60]

Yes I had a lumbar laminectomy the bone grows back sort of like when you pull a tooth from my understanding and the arthritis sets in again no cure for spinal stenosis

[@mnb3566]

Absolutely excellent video and content. Very very important very relevant questions and things to know. Thank you so much for your candidness.

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for your kind words, I am honored by them 🙏 Glad to be of help!

[@chetmarcotti4953]

Very informative.very detailed, and very professional presentation. Thank you

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@The_LuvBug]

Some great questions to ask. Thank you. My Dr. talks to me for 15 minutes and gave me a packet and then said to call his office when I’m ready. You are really in charge of your own health.

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for your comment. Yes, the discussion to have surgery should be thorough, including an analysis of risks/ benefits and pros/cons. Most of the time (unless it is an emergency), the patient should go home after the initial discussion, research this matter, write down their questions/ concerns and then schedule a follow-up ("Talk-Surgery") appointment with the surgeon. You are correct: You are really in charge of your own health.

[@NarsingRaoschoolknot]

Beautiful explanation...very helpful

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you sir. Very happy to hear that it was helpful.

[@bengt_axle]

Living in Canada, it is really quite interesting to watch this video. Our situation is exactly the OPPOSITE of what you describe. There is a tendency to strongly triage and focus only on the most severely disabled patients first, where there is a clear sign of dysfunction such as lack of muscle tone, lack of reflexes, not being able to function. Pain alone is rarely a basis for surgery, as is the case of numbness, burning etc. -- even when it is corroborated by imaging. Spine surgeons do not want to operate on cases where there is not a clear path to success or a very strong case for doing something in order to prevent an irreversible worsening. I'd say the average waiting time for a pt complaining of pain (but no weakness) is probably 3-4 years. I had a listhesis during the pandemic, walked with a cane for 2 years and still was considered low priority as I had no cauda equina (but saddle area numbness was imminent). Most good spine surgeons will not brag about results, but go over the possible complications, as a matter of due diligence and to cover themselves in case something goes wrong. They are not looking for patients, but looking to focus on the patients that will benefit most. In reality, most patients will see an improvement even if there is a complication, because they were so bad pre-op. New technologies are rarely promoted, as the doctors do not want to risk using something they are not familiar with. We do have lumbar ADR and MIS but open is still done too. Computer guided screw placement is generally not used, as is multiplanar intraoperative imaging. Surgeon skill really matters. I've had 5 spine surgeries and I think the advice given in this video is very solid.

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for your very thoughtful & insightful comment, and your kind words. Physicians and patients are often significantly constrained by the healthcare system within which they exist. This can lead to a lot of unusual discrepancies, such as when you compare the U.S. vs. Canadian healthcare systems. I had previously made a video comparing the healthcare systems of the U.S. vs. Canada vs. Brazil, which may be of interest to you: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z3y1g6eqftCjfac The problem is that it makes *rational* sense to triage patients (as you described) in the system so that the most severely-disabled patients are helped first. However, this "computerized" approach fails to take into account the terrible pain (and resultant suffering/ disability) that some patients have to live with for years and years. The example you cited (your own experience during the pandemic years) is sufficient to illustrate this point. If you had been in the U.S. during that time, you would've had the surgery done very quickly and you would have been spared years of pain and suffering. I see this every single day. Thank you for sharing your experience. I should probably make a video about it at some point... stay tuned. Best of luck to you 👍

[@bengt_axle]

@@SpineSurgeonSpeaks yes. Precisely that, lack of resources. In most ortho surgery it is the post-op care and the intraoperative support (surgical nurses, anesthesiologist).

[@johnmacdonald5767]

This was terrific! Thanks very much for posting. Very well spoken, clear, and to the point. 👍👍

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for your kind words, happy to hear that you found it helpful 🙏

[@peu1285]

Many doctors, not just surgeons, scoff at inquisitive/informed patients. This reveals the character their character and motivation.

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Sadly, this is sometimes true. You need to look for a doctor who is a good communicator and who cares about you.

[@SveinnBj]

@@SpineSurgeonSpeaks I'm from Iceland. I had a crack in my spine in 2018 and have developed postural kyphosis on top of it since then and want to get surgery. The doctors in Iceland don't do much to help me and I'm looking for help abroad. Where would you recommend I go?

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for reaching out. I am only familiar with the US healthcare system, so my experience is limited to it. Medical care in the US is much more expensive in the rest of the world, so for people traveling to the US for surgery this is an important consideration. However: If you search for it on Google, you will find some cash-based surgical practices who may be able to give you an up-front fixed cost estimate for surgery. Good luck to you! 👍

[@stephenspadaro1913]

Better get better soon you doctors are hit and miss with this.

[@indrar1213]

Very nice educative and much knowledge providing

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for your compliment, appreciate it.

[@wojtek2u]

why the conversation with a spine surge didn't look like on the video and instead it was just short: you need spine surgery

[@Treasures100]

❤Thank you for a great video..God bless you😊

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for your kind words, appreciate it 🙏

[@karinwest919]

Glad I found this video before my first consultation. Guess if the doc does not have time to answer questions or explain things, it will not be the right one for me, regardless if I was to consider surgery or not. Thanks for the advice!

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

You are welcome. Thank you for watching, glad to be of help 👍

[@vuyikulati6372]

Great information

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Glad it was helpful!

[@brandonmccain2297]

Lost my dad last night right before the time change. 8-10hr procedure, spinal fusion. Took over 12hr. And that was oct.24 a week of good news to bad news to good to bad to rollercoaster of unanswered questions. After the surgery he was just a vegetable. Then downhill more problem after problem but they couldn't figure it out. what was used to keep him stable after this rushed intense procedure wound up killing him. I'm angry. My poor mom and brothers

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

I am terribly sorry to hear about your devastating loss. Your pain must be unimaginable. Wishing you and your family all the best in this very difficult time. My prayers are with you.

[@user-ux4us9sw1k]

My sister aged 33 was told by surgeon that she has cervical stenosis in c1 c2 by birth n it was compressing spinal cord as was having severe pain in neck n legs but was very normal eight months back except for some instances of back ache during last six years

[@stellabriganti2775]

Thank you so much for the explanation. I’m facing right now the possibility of a spine surgery . With this information, I learned a lot about it, specially the questions I’m going to ask my surgeon.

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for your kind words, glad that I could help in some way. Good luck to you!

[@stellabriganti2775]

@@SpineSurgeonSpeaks thank you so much.

[@mrshaboom1]

thank u sir. that was my thought as well

[@joshualucas3421]

My spine surgeon gave me the facts and I made up my mind

[@Ij-jan]

I hate to think that any doctor can be that unethical to do surgery when it’s not needed . But it is true.

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for reaching out. As surgeons, we have a duty to be ethical. I like to think that most surgeons take their professional responsibilities seriously, with a primary goal of helping their patients to the best of their abilities. -MK

[@chriswoyce6285]

Most have a god complex.

[@miodragkiric7584]

Money, money!

[@aaadamt964]

I had 2 herniated discs. The first surgeon said one wasn't bad enough to operate on yet. He went in and ground down one disc. I was in worse pain after. 2.5 years later I had a second surgery. Both discs removed, canal opened up, spacers, rods and screws installed. Fused from L4-S1. I'm almost positive the first surgeon did that simply so he could do another surgery on me.

[@rosfidosz]

​@@aaadamt964 Bro i too have same problem of 2herniated discs. One at l4, another complicated at C3. Iam scared to go for surgery. What's best??

[@yolandaowens9924]

I wish I never got this surgery 😪 my life has been 100x worse than before the surgery 😪

[@datsuntoyy]

Can you elaborate please. What surgery did you have?

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Sorry to hear that.

[@michaelclyburn7511]

I wish I never had back surgery, I'm worse than I was. Its been a year I'm still in pain, and can't work, been on my job for 35 years, I can't do it any more, I'm a Chef/cook

[@jplopez489]

Same here first emergency surgery supposedly I ended up paralyzed forn2 months then find out surgeons didn't do surgery right where spinal cord needed decompressed yr later had surgery now in recover again still in wheelchair this time 3rd opinion doctor corrected issue it's been hell....

[@glennnielsen2425]

Very clear and concise explanation! Thanks I wish I would have come across this sooner. But luckily I did do a lot of research and found a dr that didn’t get annoyed with all my questions. All good points that luckily I did ask. Because otherwise I did feel extremely rushed and uncomfortable with overall outcomes! Ask away if it bothers them that you take your health seriously. Find another doctor!! I go soon

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for the compliment, appreciate it. Good communication between doctors and patients is absolutely essential. If you feel that your doctor is not listening to you, you need to get a second opinion. Your comment is spot on.

[@glennnielsen2425]

@@SpineSurgeonSpeaks thanks for the reply the doctor did . But I have so many reservations about having this done . I have literally seen thousands of people online and not one really good outcome or great results. Barring something like a bad accident or a tumor or such ! So Leary about all of it , and having it done!

[@metalmet]

Thanks for this video presentation. I am going today to a spine surgeon for second opinion. The first one had suggested PLIF for L5 S1 anteriolisthesis. Will ask these questions if he too suggests a surgical intervention.😊

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for reaching out, appreciate the compliment. If you are dealing with L5/S1 spondylolisthesis, the following video may be helpful to you: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qYm2Z2WvmduirLs Good luck 👍

[@carolinecorreacardoso8508]

Good morning , I’m awaiting to have 2 different spinal surgeries. I’m having left sided Si joint fusion and L5 and L4 fusion . With regards to the Si fusion he has said it’s a 70/30% chance of great improvement , which I’m happy with this as I’m in chronic pain can’t stand , sit or walk for long ! As for my L5 L4 I suffer with chronic pain from my right hip down to my foot !

[@carolinecorreacardoso8508]

I also have chronic Arthritis affecting all my joints and Spinal stenosis and fibromyalgia

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for reaching out. Yes, the SI-joint can be a pain-generator, but the diagnosis is often difficult to make. Interventional diagnostic procedures (by a pain-management specialist) can give you a rough idea about what percentage of the pain may be coming from the lumbar spine vs. the SI-joint. Wishing you all the best in your upcoming surgeries! 👍

[@dloverland]

Hurt my neck on a military freefall jump back in 1988. Hurt for months after that. 35 years of flare ups and pain went chronic three years ago. Having more ridiculopathy especially in left arm and sporadic severe pains in left C3-C4 area. I do commercial HVAC for a living so constantly looking up which aggravates my neck. The last visit with my neurosurgeon he said to go as long as I can stand it because if he goes in, he is going to fuse from C3-C7. Been doing pain management last two years but it doesn’t help with the pain I have now. As far as I can tell no muscle weakness in my arms yet. Zero family history of degenerative disc disease. Anterolisthesis C3-C4 Retrolisthesis C4-C5 Narrow waisted fusion C5-C6 Severe formaminal narrowing C3-C7 Severe spinal stenosis C4-C5 Disc bulge C6-C7 Posterior disc osteophyte complex C4-C5 Facet arthropathy C3-C7 Thanks for the informative videos!

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for watching, and for your kind words. Neck pain and radiculopathy can really affect your life in many ways. I can only imagine how difficult it must have been for you to live with this condition for so many years. I am sure you have researched ACDF surgery. Here is a link to my video about the procedure which you may find interesting: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qJPSc2ikacZ8jNE Wishing you all the best in the future 👍

[@jcaleca60]

I have scoliosis also pretty bad

[@johnsalisbury3768]

Thank you. I have symptomatic lumbar ddd with no stenosis. Severely painful and life changing. Surgeons will not move foreword with a disc replacement even when I am begging them.

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for reaching out. Low-back pain with multilevel-DDD is a difficult problem, I agree. Surgical results (with fusion) are unpredictable. I understand your frustration completely, but I have seen too many patients who underwent a (well-performed) spine surgery without relief. Just make sure you have your SI-joint checked out to make sure that it is not a pain-generator. Good luck!

[@johnsalisbury3768]

@@SpineSurgeonSpeaksthank you for the response.

[@jcaleca60]

Now looking at fusion L4 L5 S1

[@AndreaEllis-vr3kn]

I Will have surgery. Im beyond Bad. To say the least. Ut im going to Research before then. If i can be 50% Better,what alone would ve Amazing.... I have a list if things i need to fix in my back,(spine) And more Thank just For Caring.. many don't. I pray i get into tge Right Hands... Always in God's too. Thank you again for being helpful.

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for your kind words, I am honored by them. Wishing you all the best, God bless you 🙏

[@GDTheTrain13]

Thank you. Very helpful. I went to 4 different neurosurgeons and one orthopedic surgeon. Everyone has a different view on what lumbar surgery I need. It’s so frustrating

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for the feedback, I am glad you found the video helpful. It is not unusual for patients to get very different opinions from medical professionals, which can be quite frustrating. Wishing you the best of luck.

[@jcaleca60]

I had spinal stenosis had lumbar laminectomy help little 1 year ago today

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for your comment. I have a video about surgical outcomes and why they (sometimes) turn out to be different from what patients expect before surgery: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kH_Cg396hKp1o6M

[@aaronward5498]

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 a disc replacement at c5 and c6

[@user-gh9zn8jz7m]

Waiting for clearance to get an ALIF & posterior spinal fusion on L5-S1 due to spondylolisthesis. Thanks for this video, I'm going back in so that I can ask these questions. I've not met with the surgeon, yet. I am confused when I hear minimally invasive. Makes me apprehensive. 🤔

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Best of luck!

[@dawnmagee4237]

I'm not the same position as you in on the list for surgery but been told I could end up worse off

[@Achala148]

I had a traffic accident years ago and now have severe cervical degeneration and foraminal and central stenosis. I had a 5 year wait to see a neurosurgeon and saw him today, he said I have signs of myolopathy and need surgery and there is a spot at the moment in 3 days time. I also am concerned about degeneration above and below the fusion as these joints are also degenerated and discs desiccated, with anteriolethsesis in the vertebrae above the fusion. I can put up with the pain and aching, I dont have nerve pain all the time, just constant headache and neck ache and fatigue but surgeon said I need the surgery because of myolopathy signs, positive hoffmans and hyperreflexia and some signalling at compressed cord, disc is Max 6mm, and if I wait until symptoms are worse the damage can't be undone. Not only that, in our public system the wait list can be long. So I dont feel I have any choice and no time to think about it or see them again to ask more questions. I dont understand why a disc replacement can't be done, or endoscopic surgery or kyphoplasty instead so I still have function of all the joints?

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for your thoughtful comment. Yes, myelopathy is a difficult problem which can be tricky to diagnose initially. Most patients end up needing surgery, and do very well. Usually fusion is the preferred option (since it will stabilize the spine) as compared to disc-replacement. Wishing you all the best, good luck! 👍

[@Achala148]

@@SpineSurgeonSpeaks thank you your reply has eased a lot of uncertainty and stress. Yes I see, as I have so much degeneration there would be a lot of instability and can see now fusion is best... Just amazing work you do and helping so many lives. Thank you.

[@connormusic9274]

Wow! A spine surgeon doctor with a heart and concern for the interests of the patient! I twice visited a neurologist who was 45 minutes late for each appointment; and would barely let me get a word in edgewise to the conversation about surgery! All he could mumble was "you need surgery". I had a barrage of questions to ask him, but he was in too much of a hurry to care! What is the objective of the surgery? On what part of my spine anatomy would such a surgical procedure be performed? Show me why the MRI leads you to this conclusion or strategy? And why there? What would the surgical procedure actually accomplish? And would it resolve my issues completely? Or would I need to come back later possibly for another surgery? What are the risks? Are there any guarantees that this will fix all of my pain and neuropathy? If so, are they in writing? And then if it fails to accomplish the objectives; will you refund the money back to me and my insurer? Will it take multiples trips to the operating table to effect total relief of the involved pinched nerve roots or spinal canal? What is the healing process feel like? How long typically does it take?.......my God, as a critical thinker; these questions roam my mind and those of others!! Is the doctor more interested in collecting money for the office visit than he is in caring for the patient? Then "eff" him and move on to another! Thank-you doctor!

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for excellent analysis, I agree with you. Appreciate your kind words 👍

[@Sunnyanne283]

Thank you for the information. I’m curious about your opinion of a staged procedure for severe central and foraminal stenosis in a 78 year old patient.

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for reaching out. Each patient case is unique. Without examining a patient (and reviewing the imaging studies) it is unfortunately not possible for me to offer opinions about a particular surgical approach/ procedure. If you are not sure about the surgical option offered to you, I think getting a second opinion from another surgeon is probably your best bet. Good luck.👍

[@joyceanderson8648]

I say get 3 opinions and do not tell one you saw the other. Go with the 2 that match exactly. Have your primary care Doctor order your CT SCAN and MRI then take the disk to the 3 surgeons so it does not go back to being ordered by a Spinal Surgeon that the others surgeons will not want to say anything different from. Spinal Surgeons make their money doing surgery and will tell you you must have it immediately and get to this or that ER so he can operate in the morning because if you fall, you could be paralyzed. That being the case, ANYONE can be paralyzed from falling if they hit badly enough in the right area!! Do not let them scare you or rush you. Back surgery is very serious!!

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

🤔 Actually that is an interesting idea, something that seems very reasonable to me. Maybe I need to make a video about how to get a second-opinion... I may use this idea for the video. Thank you!

[@clarenceskip]

I'm getting ready to get my 4th Opinion and my neurosurgeons are in no rush at all because they are probably overbooked in the HMO system. At Kaiser and Eisenhower it takes until eternity just to get the appt for the consultation or follow up consultation. So in my experience, I have never met a neurosurgeon who wants to rush me into surgery. It's actually the opposite, I'm trying to rush them in taking on my surgery or at least give me concrete feedback😂.

[@garyclark7801]

Detailed discussions? Doesn't happen in todays medical arena. You got 10 minutes, and not a minute more, not much gets explained!

[@zaingonzalez3694]

What about Dr. recommended spinal fusion after spinal disc decompression, and spinal cord stimulator failed. My disc right before the tail bone looks like a Letter Z and herniated disc is about 9-10 with barely any disc left. Looks like a pancake in there.

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for reaching out. Since each case is unique, a physical examination & image-review would be required to answer your question. I recommend getting a second opinion from another surgeon in your area. Good luck.

[@mollyhaniball7562]

I had lumbar fusion 2 years back.In the xray taken 3 months after surgery one of the scews got loose and the l4 had again slipped forward.I am 75 and the surgeon blamed it on soft bone . Pls give youy advice .I have no pain now but severe instability and loss of balace while walking.

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for reaching out. Since I am not familiar with your particular case, I cannot give you specific advice about your condition. Having said that, it would be reasonable to get a second opinion from another surgeon (such as at an academic university-based practice) for this matter. Depending on the circumstances, surgery may (or may not) be offered. Obviously instability/loss-of-balance while walking poses significant risks, and I understand why you are rightfully concerned. Wishing you good luck 👍

[@tomslick2058]

Weakness and muscle waste is why I had my neck surgery 30 years ago. Micro surgery through the back of the neck c4 and 5. Yes I thought I could live with the tingling but 9 months later I could not even pull my shirt off. Surgery was a piece of cake and 45 minutes. Herniated disk and bone spur. Fast forward to today and pin and needles down my arm upon lifting my neck up. Disk compression c5 and c6. .no weakness yet. One surgeon so far says he would have to do fusion but try a epidural first since I have no weakness. Going to have two more surgeons look at me. At 68 fusion scares me. He said something about the bulging disk is to hardend to go through the back and he would not know how bad the bone is compressiontill he got in there.. 7:52

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for your thoughtful comment. Cervical radiculopathy is a difficult problem, agreed. I have a few videos which you may find helpful: Cervical radiculopathy: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fp7PkGmhgpmZj5o ACDF surgery: kzbin.info/www/bejne/a3mzna2ujLNlms0 Why spine surgery fails: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kH_Cg396hKp1o6M It is always a reasonable idea to get a second opinion. Looks like you are on the right track. Good luck to you 👍

[@luzvargas1063]

Sir the truth is the insurance i think influence on us getting it or not regardywe are face down When we get face down the nerve need to b decompress and pt has no choice.

[@cherriess21]

i had kyphosis surgery 2019, last year 2023 i removed my rods and screws…. because the screws stuck out my back and i was allergic to the cobalt rods. My hunchback came back with a 67 degree curve and i’m getting another surgery with screws and rods again in a week…. the surgeon will use lower profile screws and titanium rods, do u think it’ll be a better outcome????

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for reaching out. Unfortunately I am not able to comment on your particular case since I am not familiar with the details. However, sometimes revision surgery is indeed necessary (if the previous surgery was not successful). I hope you have had a detailed discussion with your surgeon about the rationale of the surgery and potential options if the surgery leads to unexpected outcomes in the future. Wishing you all the best, good luck 👍

[@marcalhanaty4636]

Had spinal fusion on L5 S1 almost a year ago started to develop severe, numbness and weakness in my legs and feet in my fifth month. Now it can hardly walk or move. They found nerve damage by the S1. I wonder if it can be repaired or I’m screwed for life.

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Sorry to hear about your difficulties. O bviously I am unable to diagnose your condition or make treatment recommendations, but it could be helpful to get a second opinion from another surgeon (preferably at an academic medical center, where the surgeons are used to dealing with complex/ difficult cases). Wishing you all the best. Good luck 👍

[@user-om3zp9kn5m]

Hi doc thanks for valuable information my case is that i have ossification of spine cord legaments my symptoms is numbness and tingling in both of hand and foots and legs and tingling and numbness increased to all my body thats all because of my cervical stenosis whene I go doctors to explain them the case they say no need for surgery my discs are fine and no one tell me about ossification back side .what can i do

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

If you are not satisfied with your surgeon's answer, you can get a second opinion from another surgeon. Good luck!

[@user-om3zp9kn5m]

@@SpineSurgeonSpeaks can I have your contact number please

[@reneeshuk7240]

Have been diagnosed with spine arthritis L5-S1 , should I get spinal medication for pain

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for reaching out. Unfortunately, I am unable to diagnose your condition or recommend a treatment since you are not my patient. The best course of action for you would be to consult with a spine-specialist who can direct your care. Wishing you all the best 👍 Thank you for watching

[@marokopi7002]

With a T1 to T3 and T10 to T11 and and t6 to T7 spinal stenosis ,what would be the number of operations to fix this?

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for reaching out. Unfortunately it is not possible to make a diagnosis or recommend a surgical procedure without history/ physical-examination and a review of the imaging data. I hope you have consulted with a spine-surgeon who can help answer this question. Good luck 👍

[@jonathanwalton999]

I had a cystic schwannoma at S1 discovered incidentally on an MRI for back pain. The MRI also showed a herniation at L4-L5 which is causing most of my issues (apparently). Meeting with the neurosurgeon on Tuesday. What types of questions should I be asking? Can you point me to good information on the S1 vertebrae as well as the associated nerve roots?

[@jonathanwalton999]

It’s Intradural Extramedullary

[@pritpalsingh1960]

There is video on his channel he explained all the nerve roots you can check it

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Hope you find this video helpful: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jmqtfoCXmqeIgMU

[@jcaleca60]

He was ready to put the colflex and I said that's not going to do nothing with my scoliosis he said you're right I told him I was a mechanical engineer he said I get it

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Your insight is spot-on: There needs to be a clearly-statable rationale/ plan for every proposed surgery. If something doesn't make sense as a patient... get a second opinion from another surgeon. Thank you for your excellent comment 👍

[@glendamkhabela9355]

It has been one month after the lumbar fusion surgery,i still cant walk normally

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Sorry to hear that... wishing you the best 👍

[@angeltemplora9747]

doc is it advisable to do spine surgery if u have spine cancer in L3 ang now my father is paraplegic i think it compress the nerve and has pain

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Sorry to hear about the very trying situation which you find yourself in. Your question is difficult to answer for me because only a surgeon who has examined your father (and also reviewed the history and imaging-studies) can make such a determination. I hope that your father has been evaluated by at least one spine surgeon. If you are not satisfied with the first surgeon's recommendation, then perhaps getting a second opinion from another surgeon would be quite appropriate. Good luck to you, wishing you all the best 🙏

[@mrshaboom1]

I am thinking about surgery on my lower back.a brief history, I have had all injections possible i think. im taking perocet 10 mg. being doing exercises for back and walking every day. Had a stimulator put last year and all of this just don't work like it use to. this has been going on for about 10 years. He ask me about surgery several months ago but declined but know im thinking about the surgery. do u have any recommendations at this time? By the way im 76,

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for reaching out. I think the best way to determine if you need surgery is to get a consultation with a spine surgeon; if you are not satisfied with the recommendation of the surgeon maybe you should get a second opinion. At age 76 you have to balance the pros/cons & risks/benefits of surgery vs. no-surgery very carefully. The risks of surgery rise as you near 80yrs of age. Wishing you all the best 👍

[@tammiegreen6046]

If a fusion in cervical spine doesn’t take does that also mean the discectomy doesn’t either??

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Diskectomy is the step where a disc is removed *before* a cadaver-bone-graft (or "cage") is placed in the disc-space. If you watch this video, this concept will be quite clear to you: kzbin.info/www/bejne/a3mzna2ujLNlms0 Once a bone-graft is placed (and the plate is used to secure it), the goal is for the body to gradually convert the cadaver-bone-graft into its own bone. This process is called "fusion". If a fusion doesn't take, it means that the body was unable to convert the bone-graft into its own bone. This condition is called "pseudoarthrosis" or "nonunion". Hope this explanation helps.

[@drainedlai]

what about scoliosis?

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

There are many types of scoliosis: Depending on the specific type of scoliosis, surgery can be very helpful. You should have a detailed discussion with your surgeon about the rationale/ pros/ cons of surgery. If you are not sure, get a second opinion. Good luck 👍

[@l2r777]

Hi Dr I was Diagnosed with chronic severe lumbar stenosis on my L5-S1 level 1 in 2018, recently Did a New MRI found out i have CAUDA EQUINA SYNDROME BUT IS NOT SEVERE WHICH PROBABLY NEED I SURGERY? DO I NEED SURGERY IF I HAVE NO SYMPTOMS? IM 34YRS

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Hello: Without a physical examination and a review of the imaging studies, unfortunately I cannot tell you how to proceed. But at the very least I would recommend a formal evaluation by a spinal-surgeon to answer this question. This is probably the best way forward. Wishing you good luck.

[@ritastutler1470]

Is there anything newer than a fusion. I don’t want another fusion.I have severe stenosis, ruptured discs, a torn disc, facet disc disease, terrible arthritis and a doctor told me I have a visible kink in my back. I have not gone back to the surgeon because I don’t want another fusion, the above and below disc on my l4 and 5 are bad now. I spasm for hours in the morning. I need help. I do try to move, walk some, do yard work, etc but have flare ups especially when I sit too much.

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for reaching out. I am sorry to hear about your difficult situation. Sometimes when a surgeon is not able to help you, it can be very helpful to get a second opinion from another surgeon. The goal of a fusion procedure is to stabilize the spine after it has been decompressed with a laminectomy: That is the reason why a laminectomy is often performed with a fusion. Hope this helps.

[@ritastutler1470]

@@SpineSurgeonSpeaks I did not get a laminectomy. My surgeon was great. He did what he thought and I might be too active and did too much. I did do all my walking and what I was supposed to do. My doctor gave me muscle relaxers…make me feel drugged.

[@leonaowen9234]

Also ask the surgeon if they mind you get another opinion, how do they react.

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Great point. A good/ reputable surgeon should not feel upset upon finding out that the patient sought a second-opinion. In fact, I myself sometimes send patients for second-opinion, and in my experience patients appreciate this very much. Thank you for watching and reaching out 👍

[@stacystandifer2645]

I had a bilateral laminectomy. It helped for maybe a month. 8 months later I had L3-S1 fusion. I’m 10 months post op now and I hurt every single day still, my legs are numb, they burn, I can’t shave my legs, my balance is still way off… the only thing good that came out of the surgeries is I can stand up straighter than before. I’ve gained weight because I can no longer work out, I get depressed because I feel like I can’t take care of my family properly. I’m only 41, and I feel like I’m 81. 😔

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

I am sorry to hear about the difficult situation you find yourself in. Good luck. Wishing you all the best.

[@farajisewe7416]

very sorry even I waiting for the doctors decision if I should have surgery or being injected . the problem is disc bulges and erosion, grained a mean. disc3 and 4

[@JacobsenJennyMrs]

I am sorry you feel so much older. I am the same going in for a cervical laminectomy c2-t2. I am so desperate because my life is hell.

[@alisetait3132]

Wish you was in my town

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

👍

[@vuyikulati6372]

I went to see the doctor, and the results were directed to surgery... L5/S1 ...pain its bad. I'm not comfortable with the surgery because of all the risks involved, which the neurosurgeon explained...insighting that there is no guarantee even though they do the best. I wish there was an injection to take instead of surgery. I'm 46 years.

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for reaching out. I agree, sometimes these discussions can be very difficult.

[@eiraparker6987]

Me two as well

[@jamalakhatun8093]

My brother have laminectomy in l2 l3 level on 29/5/24 he unable to move both legs...why??? Plz reply sir

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Very sorry to hear about the difficult situation that you find yourself in. Unfortunately, since I am not familiar with the particulars of your brother's case, I am not able to comment on it. Wishing you all the best, hope things turn for the better soon.

[@syndeebennett3722]

I had spine surgery in 1999. Using BAK interbody fusion cages at 2 levels. Nothing but severe chronic pain every since. Do you know anything about these devices? Tyia

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for reaching out. To my knowledge BAK cages are no longer being used, for this reason. Although I do not know the particulars of your case, it would probably be beneficial for you to seek the opinion of one or more spine surgeons from major academic centers (i.e. university-based hospitals). Living with back pain after surgery (for so long) is not easy. I wish you all the best.

[@ritastutler1470]

Fusion did not give me relief and made my above and below discs bad .

[@dasarirammohan9525]

Sir,Good afternoon, I have both cervical and sciatica pain problems but first doctor performed acdf fusion cervical spondylosis c5 c6, two months completed now, in how many days next sciatica surgery can be done please, what are the complications in not done sciatica surgery

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Dear Sir: Unfortunately, without examining a patient it is not possible to give an accurate opinion about your condition, because each patient/situation is quite unique. I would recommend getting an in-person evaluation/ examination by a qualified spine-surgeon in your area to give you the best possible advice. This is why I made this video. Wish you the best of luck!

[@arvindbondre5655]

Sir my problem cervical spondylitis c4c5c6c7 doctor cam me advice is the sursory how can me passible in sursary sir I'm fear in sursory sir

[@robinh.524]

Unfortunately, all back surgery comes with caution it WILL eventually cause surrounding disc and nerve problems and require more surgery. My disc is essentially gone at age 65 having begun as a bulging disc at age 33.Its made my life and my family's lives miserable. Its taken 32 years to finally get it fixed soon.

[@augen8819]

​@@robinh.524 Hello, what surgery did You have?

[@robinh.524]

@@augen8819 Mis TLIF of L4-L5. I suffered alot of damage having my last child and after 33 years of hell, arthritis finished the the job. Science used to tell us to proceed with caution about ALL new research. I still believe my doctors that I have gotten to kniw carefully, want the best for me and I always weigh my choices carefully.And of course I want to say other things thay aren't allowed anymore.

[@gabrielstar6397]

Hi Im being denied surgery year after year.. my problems with my spine started about 12-15 years ago I’m 40 today.. now I’m loosing sensation over all especially in my arms and legs I can’t really feel when I’m moving around just about everything I do feels tiring and if I try to train my muscles I right away feel worse there is no blood flow or oxygen getting out in the muscles because my back is compressed.. I really don’t know what to do this is not a life worth living that’s what I feel.

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for reaching out. I don't know the particulars of your condition, but given what you have described it would make sense to consult with additional spine surgeons (for second/ third opinions) to see if the combined weight of their opinions (to recommend surgery) will be enough to allow surgical authorization by the insurance companies. This is often a difficult problem. Wishing you all the best, good luck 👍

[@2jimszrnorth802]

I'm possibly facing a fusion of L5 S1, I do not have any disc left at all. So the question I have, Is a fusion of that area okay? My doc said that part of the back doesnt move much.

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for reaching out. I am unable to comment on your case specifically (since I am not familiar with the details). However, a single-level L5-S1 fusion is well-tolerated by the majority of patients, without significant functional deficit or restriction of range-of-motion [especially if the disc has mostly degenerated/ worn-out].

[@jcaleca60]

I want rods not coflex

[@jamescostello7584]

Please can you try and answer my questions cuz none of the doctors tell me exactly I started at a young age with eating disorders okay I wound up getting osteoporosis I didn't really know it so I broke thoracic 6789 and basically didn't practice posture so I end up with a massive nasty curved thoracic I know I got nasty spine pain I am now 57 years old and one doctor want to do a complete spinal infusion to help with pain but I wanted to straighten my spine out somewhat not completely perfect I think I got a 70 degree curve not know exactly how or the I got my Doses and I can't find a curved I can stand up straight with baby clothes on and it looks kind of normal but it follows me so much the way it looks like I can wear normal clothes and the pain 120 mg of morphine a day to deal with and function be able to function and I still can't function I stay in bed most of the day I would like my goal to be my spine more straighter than what it is and be in somewhat less pain that's it especially more straighter than what it is it's all have to be 50% straighter it can be 25 to 40 straight up but these doctors especially the main one is not telling me that he doesn't know I am taking Prolia for 10 years and that brought my bone density up enough to have the surgery and they were willing to do it I just didn't decide to do it yet 3 years ago I got to a major car accident major broke my both legs and all this 72 bones but I did not break my spine for some strange reason and the curves still seems to be the same I don't understand what it broke my spine even the phone cement they put into the broken wedge for discs are still in place Keifer plasty iPhone plasti did not do its job because it was old fractures but still the doctor wants to do a complete Fusion I think I think it's a T2 to L2 and I spoke to another spine surgery he wanted to do a laminectomy the first doctor did not want to do any alarm in next to me and when he told me it could straighten my spine significantly or it could not straighten it at all so the other one I didn't ask him too many questions but it's very complicated the way you told me but can you answer any of those questions for me please please

[@jamescostello7584]

Sorry for some of the words not coming out as I say I'm not typing I'm using Google talk to text

[@jamescostello7584]

Basically the first doctor for 10 years while I was taking the Prolia I didn't discuss with them how much it would straighten my spine out because of the thoracic kyphosis and when it came down to do it he was unclear telling me how much completely every time I went to he did not say how much it would straighten it I don't think he knows but then I asked one of the nurses and they told me that it could straighten it significantly or not at all if I feel wouldn't straighten it all I feel the metal will just stabilize spine and not straighten it or might make it worse I'm worried about that I would rather do it if it would straighten my spine I would take all the three years of aggravation you know which is really hard if I know it would straighten it out this is a continuation to my original post thank you if you can answer any of this for me

[@SpineSurgeonSpeaks]

Thank you for reaching out. Since I have not examined you or reviewed your studies, I cannot give you direct advice about your particular case. However, in general, patients with weak bones (i.e. osteoporosis) are more likely likely to have significant complications after undergoing spine surgery. It sounds like you got a some conflicting opinions from a few different surgeons for possibly this reason.

[@tammiegreen6046]

You appear to be very wise & caring Doc! So many wouldn’t take the time to even try! Just wish I could find my own answer from u lol