My Back Surgery at ONZ in Germany - 1 Year Later

I was a little reluctant to post this video since it really gets deep and personal for me and exposes the agony of what I was dealing with behind the scenes. But I think it's important to share and help spread awareness that other options do exist for people that are facing a spinal fusion. Today marks exactly 1 year post-op from having 2-level lumbar ADR surgery in Germany at the ONZ clinic with the LP-ESP artificial discs performed by Dr. Bierstedt. I continue to be doing very well and living a normal active life again without any pain. As the months pass by, I feel more solid, more stable and overall better and better as time passes. I don't have any restrictions. I honestly couldn't have asked for a better outcome and I'm so thankful for the doctors, the technology, and all of the people that supported me through all of this. Cheers to continued health and happiness!
For more info on the clinic, visit: www.germandiscreplacement.com

[@curtfunk3500]

Sitting in my wife's hospital room right now, day 2 after surgery. She is doing amazing!

[@dgreenie320]

Awesome! Glad to see your experience was a great success! I look forward to speaking with you soon!

[@user-hd8ej8yx9p]

so happy for you man, it's hard to see a good man down. It's uplifting to see a good man upright!

[@jlo4905]

That’s awesome, I’m happy for you! It’s a Journey and you made it! Congrats

[@TommyTompkins]

Thank you!! 😊

[@e11e7en]

So happy for you! Also amazed we can do this.

[@howlinmad4208]

I love it, we sometimes forget what is important. You guys have reminded us of just what is important, thank you and good health for the future

[@TommyTompkins]

Many of us certainly take the little things for granted. It's important to pause every once in a while and appreciate the little things like being able to tie your shoes, lean over the sink while brushing your teeth, sitting on the toilet, throwing a baseball with your son...etc. There were many times I couldn't do any of the above but thankful that I don't have any of those restrictions anymore!

[@mangravy2000]

Thank you so very much for sharing your story.

[@jphoffman1]

So glad you found relief! Having only “strained” my back a couple times and the pain and limitations that put on me I can only imagine what you’ve been suffering with! Too bad you had to go to such great lengths to get better!

[@TommyTompkins]

Yeah it's too bad it took so long to find the right solution. But man...I'm sooo glad and thankful that I found one. Back to living and loving life again which still amazes me.

[@carlosaunmo5317]

Amazing🤗 I totally feel you brother🙏 Been there and still are. DDD on my C5/C6 and L4/L5 with MC type II since 2009. One has to experience it to understand the physical pain and the mental toughness needed to endure. I refused fusion and still live in the hope that ADR will be available here at one point. So happy for you🙏

[@wm005]

Great to see you up and about...

[@TommyTompkins]

Thanks Wayne!

[@markkellogg7319]

Wonderful procedure! Thanks for sharing it with all of us. After 2 hip replacements and rotator cuff surgery I know the drill, but the back is always more difficult so it's really neat to see a newer procedure working so well. And congratulations to you for the discipline and energy to recover so completely. Our family motto (at 70 and 73 years old) is "Never give a freaking inch"! Keep up the great work Tommy...

[@TommyTompkins]

Thanks Mark! Wishing you and your family continued good health and happiness!

[@JANDLWOODWORKING]

Congrats man I love your story!!!

[@TommyTompkins]

Thank you!

[@scottgutauckis4615]

Congrats. As an active guy myself I could never imagine being so incapacitated. Glad you are feeling better.

[@TommyTompkins]

Thanks Scott. Hopefully you never have to experience the same type of back issues. I'm just glad it's over and I'm back to feeling like a normal person!

[@dr-sg8xo]

This gives hope. Spine problems create tremendous despair.thanks for uploading this

[@terance9551]

Hi Tommy, so good to see you doing well in this video. Im in South Africa and looking at surgery options - really nervous! Ive been trying natural remedies for 8 years now and its only getting worse. I miss running with my friends much! You give me hope mate. Congrats Tommy.

[@johnbutler3141]

Hi Terrance I had the same op at ONZ in Germany by Dr Beerstadt. All good. I live in Durban SA.

[@nordicfreya671]

I'm so happy for you, greetings from Germany 🥰

[@TommyTompkins]

Thank you!

[@dafud77]

Absolutely phenomenal Tommy! I had a wreck while in the Army in 1997. Both hips were crushed, was told i would never walk again. Docs managed to plate them back together and i was walking a few months later. Fast forward 17 years and the arthritis was so bad i was struggling to walk 1/4 mile. Double hip replacements and i was doing 5Ks(walking lol) a few months later. Keep up the great work, i know it is a tough road.

[@TommyTompkins]

Sorry to hear about that David. Sounds like you've been on a rough road for a while. Hopefully you're doing better these days.

[@anonymousgeorge4321]

Awesome video. Thanks

[@tonybp965]

I'm so sorry you are going through so much Tommy. Looking at you trying to get out of bed made me cry because I know the pain. While I'm not as advanced, there are days that has taken me to so many levels of pain, to get out of bed the same way. I love woodworking but because of this and needing a kidney as well, I can't do what I love. I hope and pray you are getting better each day. That God gives you strength, and lets you continue what you love. God Richly Bless You.

[@TommyTompkins]

Thank you so much Tony. I'm very thankful that my recovery has gone so well and that I'm back to living life 100%. I hope you can find some relief soon!

[@sandraguti46]

This is amazing

[@rjmartin6001]

Your video literally just brought tears to my eyes, just in AWE! Just got the ok that I AM candidate for surgery as early as Sept 6/22. I wish I had been informed about this 10 years ago. Still my head is reeling and reeling and reeling. But speaking with my liaison tonight and surgeons next Tuesday here in Winnipeg. Everyone DOES NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THIS!!

[@johnb4183]

RJ Martin Did you have your surgery ? Thanks

[@jackattack9799]

Any update?

[@elenalisiak9442]

Thanks for sharing……I am twice your age and doing my research, will consider your story for sure. Hope you are doing well.

[@moparchargergang2050]

I appreciate that you still reply and do updates on your disc procedure and I’m glad you are doing very well, I’m doing lots of research I was told that I need a L5-S1 fusion “ALIF” and I’m scared , yes an unfortunately they don’t do disc replacement in USA

[@lumsden169]

Glad to see you "back" at it

[@TommyTompkins]

lol thanks!

[@pgarza2]

Wow! That's awesome!

[@adrianvanderzandt4310]

Well done guy! Modern medical science! Brilliant!

[@KLIDIMARIA]

Congrats !!! 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@TommyTompkins]

Thank you!

[@patty578]

Absolutely amazing! I’m going at the end of the month for my replacement L5-S1

[@TommyTompkins]

I wish you a successful surgery and a speedy recovery!

[@patty578]

@@TommyTompkins thanks! On day 4 now and doing fantastic.

[@kls-koreanlifestyle6455]

@@patty578 Hello patty. How are you doing now

[@benedettobonanno1412]

Its so amazing to see how joy 🤩 is back into your spirit 🙏, i have one question Did you got your surgery incision from the back or from the front ? Thank you blessing for your all family

[@user-of3do1tx7i]

I saw you getting out of bed. Tears flowed from my experience. My back is also very bad.😭

[@RyannLacy]

Thank you for this update. This is the disc I want but do not see it yet FDA cleared. It is by far the best active disc, plus it's compressible, and made of all titanium. By far the best design followed by the cleanest longest living disc. And wow, that price, I just paid that for a 3.5hr emergency room visit after a motorcycle accident.

[@TommyTompkins]

Sorry to hear about your emergency room visit. Yes, the ESP is an awesome disc option that is not available in the US.

[@SmedleyButler1]

@@TommyTompkins thanks so much for sharing....looking for your price comment....did you consider Baumrungrad Resort Hospital in Thailand?

[@SmedleyButler1]

how about today, 2yrs later compared to the Simplify disc fda approved last year?

[@Stel_FPL]

So glad it went well for you buddy, I'm going to ONZ soon for a fusion L5 S1. Wish me luck.

[@maysmith7994]

Good luck. How you feeling now?

[@Stel_FPL]

@@maysmith7994 I felt great for the first 2-3 weeks but now I'm in a lot of pain, I had to fusion l5 S1 and cervical 3 levels ADR my arm pain has gone but now have neck and shoulder pain, but it not too bad, but my pain in my lower left back and buttocks is so painful especially when I get up from my bed, Dr said it could be my si joint?

[@maysmith7994]

@@Stel_FPL oh no. I hope feel better soon. I have degenerative disc problem L4L5 too. After sorting the coccyx problem I have look to see what I should do for that problem. I habe heard a lot about dr Rischke in Switzerland who implants ADR but I need more research.

[@jackattack9799]

Any updates ?

[@johnbutler3141]

Hi Tommy, thats great. I had a disc replacement (L5- S1) at the same place with Dr Beerstadt. About 4 yrs ago. All Good.

[@TommyTompkins]

Good to hear! I passed my 5th year mark on June 5th and still doing great as well.

[@user-cd7wr7vx2k]

Hey John, would you be willing to chat to me about your experience. I am a young 26 year old South African who recently had a microdiscectomy but have lost a lot of disc heigh and am looking at my options.

[@catherinetanaka7767]

Tommy, congratulations on your success after back surgery. I’d love to know how you’re feeling now three years out. I’m guessing this surgery is a one and done yes? Would love to know if you see this comment. Thann you 🙏🏽 May you continued to feel incredible and strong in your body

[@NewTestamentDoc]

Been there, hated that! It's a long haul but when it works, it can change a life. I've had 5 back surgeries.

[@minimummm]

Tommy thanks for sharing your story. Glad you had such a great recovery! I am just considering contacting the clinic. I have an annual tear on L4L5 level and some arthritic changes there. I mostly feel grinding sensation and burning pain there down to the si joints and coccyx. Whenever I sit it feels like it's just bone on bone, no cartilage. Did you have the same type of pain? Would you mind describing it?

[@whowutwut]

Wow... Tommy, thank you so much for sharing this video and putting your experience out there. I came across your channel update video and you mentioned this procedure... it's truly amazing. I've been dealing with disc issues for 19 years now (will be 39 this year) and for 15 of those, could manage it fairly well. But for the last 1.5 years, it's been daily pain, not crazy pain, but always there when I'm standing, really affecting my physical activity and quality of life. I do need to talk to some neurosurgeons but Covid-19 kind of got in the way of all that. How long did this surgery take and how is the pain level after the surgery? You looked great right after.. Thanks again, it's really inspiring to see this video.

[@TommyTompkins]

Hi Victor - sorry for the late reply here, and sorry to hear that your quality of life is declining. Everybody that has this surgery has an individually unique recovery experience. For me personally, I was in horrendous pain prior to surgery and couldn't sit or lay down without excruciating pain. After the surgery, I had the normal abdominal pain from the incision site but I could tell right away when I stood for the first time that my normal back pain was gone. It's definitely not an overnight thing. I was walking 1 day after surgery and was confidently doing the stairs on day 2, but it really takes 6 months to a year to fully recover. It's a major surgery and not everybody makes it back to 100%. Keep in mind that all of us go into this with different anatomies, different prior surgeries, different diagnosis, different health conditions, different pain tolerances...etc. I was lucky enough to get back to near 100% and was back to snowboarding at 7 months post op. Now that I'm almost 2 years post-op, I much closer to that 100% mark. Honestly, this surgery was the best decision I could have made and I wish I would have done it sooner. If you're thinking about going to ONZ for surgery, now isn't a bad time since they are now opening back up from the pandemic for international patients and because flights are much cheaper now to fly there as opposed to what it normally costs.

[@whowutwut]

@@TommyTompkins For the ONZ stuff, i'm assuming that you have to be a good candidate for it right? The disc replacement looks really interesting. I have a consult with a surgeon at HSS in NYC in July if we re-open here.. just to talk to someone and figure out what my possible options are But i think they would go the fusion route. ... I can manage right now, but want to at least start a conversation...

[@TommyTompkins]

@@whowutwut That's correct. Not everybody is a good candidate for ADR surgery. ONZ does free evaluations so if you want to see if you're a good candidate you can visit www.onzspine.com and fill out the form there. They'll ask for your MRI and X-Ray files and can evaluate your case remotely.

[@dennisfahlstrom7422]

Great results Tom. It’s a shame you had to wait so long and go so far for corrective surgery. I always thought you folks in the Twin Cities region had the best hospitals in the country. I know in the Ozarks where I live the choices are limited between poor and terrible. I had L5/S1 fused 3 years ago and still have lower back pain although less severe. I’m still limited on activities. Ibuprofen helps. For folks who have never experienced lower back pain - it makes you feel really puny and unable to do very much.

[@TommyTompkins]

Thanks Dennis. Yeah we have some great hospitals but not so great when it comes to the options that they offer for degenerated discs in the lumbar area. Germany has much better options. Sorry to hear that you're still experiencing some back pain after your fusion. You're right, most people have no idea what it's like to be completely incapacitated due to nerve related back pain. Best of luck in your continued quest for relief!

[@sapelesteve]

As a retired Chiropractor, I know exactly how you felt having seen so many patients over the years in the same situation. Glad that you were able to have that disc replacement procedure done Tommy & that it worked out so well for you. Not many Doc's around the world do that type of surgery. There is one Doc in Boston who actually developed that surgical procedure & teaches Docs all over the world how to perform it. He operated on a friend of mine who had three different lumbar spinal levels done. He is doing well to date! Severe disc degeneration is a really bad affliction, to say the least.......

[@TommyTompkins]

Thanks Steve. There are some docs here that will do ADR but one of the reasons why I went Germany is because I wanted a certain disc (the LP-ESP) that isn't available here in the United States. Here they mostly use Pro-Disc or Active-L which are ball and socket type discs. The LP-ESP is a viscoelastic disc that has some cushion, an elastic return (spring back), and more closely mimics a real human disc. It also uses pins instead of aggressive keels which I preferred.

[@sapelesteve]

@@TommyTompkins Thanks Tommy for that info. Good to know for future reference. I wonder what the long term results are for that type of disc replacement? Do they wear out & then you have to have another procedure performed? Anyway, so glad that it's working well for you!

[@TommyTompkins]

@@sapelesteve That's a good question. Only time will tell but it's looking good so far. They've been using this disc in Europe since 2006 and there aren't any known failures to my knowledge. They tested the disc to 40 million cycles and the physical and chemical composition before and after was nearly identical with no signs of wear or break down. It's said to be designed to easily last the rest of your life. Your body should break down before the disc does.

[@sapelesteve]

@@TommyTompkins Good to know! As an aside, I can't help but wonder what the trip to Germany must have been like given that you were in so much pain. Can you post info on where you had the procedure done?Thanks

[@TommyTompkins]

@@sapelesteve The trip to Germany was pretty rough. I was the last person off the plane and the flight staff was getting worried. But it wasn't so bad knowing that things were about to change for me. I dealt with pain for so long...one last flight didn't seem like that big of a deal. I had surgery with Dr. Bierstedt at the ONZ clinic - www.germandiscreplacement.com

[@Garahan]

Very motivating story! Hopefully my story will end just as well after the surgery. I have degenerative disc issues in L4 L5 and L5 S1. And haven't been able to move well since 2016. And had to stop everything I loved doing. I.e. basketball, weight lifting, etc I would like a baby soon and I want to be able to pick it up and play with it like a normal person.🙏🤞

[@TommyTompkins]

Sorry to hear that you're having similar issues. I know how debilitating it can be. Wishing you a very successful outcome!

[@kls-koreanlifestyle6455]

Hope you had great outcomes

[@ManCrafting]

I love seeing this. I hate that we need to resort to leaving the US and have to pay out of pocket for something that should be covered here in the US, but I see how life changing it has been and I imagine worth every penny.

[@TommyTompkins]

Thank you! Yes, it's a shame that we have to leave the US to get this type of procedure. But to be honest, I don't regret a single penny spent. I'd do it all over again in a heartbeat if I had the chance. It's hard to put a price on living life to it's fullest without pain.

[@robertosandovalfrias]

Congrats on your recovery! I have a question for you or anyone that experienced foot numbness and nerve pain. After the surgery I woke up with no pain in my back but my right foot is numb and I have moderate pain. Enough to not let me sleep. I didn't have any type of pain like this or anything in this leg. How usual or normal is it?

[@i.k.5822]

the difference before and after is just amazing, can you please tell us how much cost the procedure itself without plain tickets , thx.

[@ryanb1938]

I suffered with my L4 to S1 ruptured. I have L5-S1 fused and L4 to L5 ESP DISC replacement. Seeing the pain you went through is what I went through too. I'm now 4 days out of esp lumbar disc replacement and the pain has pretty much gone. To see this video makes me so happy that this will hopefully be me in a year and then 2years from now

[@TommyTompkins]

Right on! 4 days out is still very early for you. If you have anywhere near the success that I've had, you'll be a very happy man. Just keep in mind that the full recovery really takes about 6 months to a year. Even at 2 years out I was still seeing improvements. Today I feel absolutely fantastic! Wishing you a quick recovery and much success!

[@ryanb1938]

@@TommyTompkins thank you. I had my surgery on friday at 1pm. Was already up and walking on Saturday at 930am on my own. X-ray at 1030am. My Dr was so impressed and proud I was up so early. My manual pain pump filled with oxycodone got removed on Saturday at 9am. I then only had oral pain killers and I took some natural anti inflammatorys which for 5 days now I think I'm racing ahead as far as pain wise. Since 11.30pm Tuesday night I've got no pain killers in my system at all. I've just woken up and my pain is about a 3-4 at most. I did however sleep very very deeply in my own bed again

[@user-ks5nw8hr1y]

@@ryanb1938 how is it going these days? esp and m6 which one is better?

[@ryanb1938]

@@user-ks5nw8hr1y i had ESP used and i feel great. No back pain. If i do too much i do get a little stiff in my muscles which is normal even for a healthy back. All good my end. Was totally worth getting the ESP done

[@user-ks5nw8hr1y]

@@ryanb1938 Oh that's great. Do you live in us? I wanna ask couple of questions by email if you have mercy..

[@loicmunaro1786]

Great to see that HUDGE difference! It look's like the upper implant isn't perfectly at the center and a tiny bit too forward, am I wrong?

[@TommyTompkins]

Yeah the upper implant did migrate forward very slightly but settled in that spot and hasn't moved since. It hasn't affected the end result.

[@gfroese4799]

Watched this video and I am feeling so jealous. Of course I can still force myself to stand and walk, so not really that bad.

[@richardlegault8908]

Thanks again for the info ,how is your back since the surgery

[@TommyTompkins]

My back is feeling amazing. I have absolutely zero pain and am back to doing things I used to do decades ago. The recovery really takes about a year to really settle in, but even during the 1st year I was feeling much better than prior to surgery. However, there's no guarantees with surgery and not everybody has it as easy as me. I think it's really important to set your expectations low and assume that you're going to be in a lot of pain after surgery. Everybody goes into surgery with a unique history and a unique anatomy which leads to a unique recovery experience for each of us.

[@izatrini439]

I am very curious to know how much the surgery costs? I would definitely consider this surgery!

[@ghana1631]

Hello I have the same problem in my level L4/L5/S1 but how abt the cost I think it's very cosfull🙂🙂

[@raulocasio9168]

Hi Tommy, how are you doing today 5/6/2023, with the LP-ESP ADR? I am facing L3-4 and L4-5 Spinal fusion and I am trying not to have those levels fused. I have Degenerative Disk Disease which causes Foraminal Stenosis at those levels. Would appreciate your feedback. Thank you, and stay well!

[@BootedTech]

Hey Tommy, how were the discs inserted, where was the surgery? Belly, Side, back, etc. And why do you have no surgery Pain?

[@akomara1]

Curious how it’s going three years later. I can’t recall if the video said but we’re these m6 discs?

[@maladrov1]

Incredibly if it is true. I know success stories but also those that are no success at all in clasic spine fusion. In my case I nead 3 month to wolk normaly with only minimal invasive hernia removal operatin L4L5 and it is fascinating watch so good recovery after ADR. All the best everyone.

[@logiphilesadam5794]

Are you allowed to run right now What are the postoperative restrictions

[@thinkingimpaired5663]

You give me hope, perhaps I am a suitable candidate for disc replacement. By the way which model product did you have installed? And how is your back at this time?

[@TommyTompkins]

I received the LP-ESP at my L3-4 and 4-5. Today marks my 5 year surgery anniversary and I'm feeling great!

[@glennzuhlke9236]

Getting out of bed in the morning. Boy do I know what that’s like. Waiting for X-rays to send off to ONZ for approval. I might experience this soon.

[@bertv1205]

Awesome! Really happy for you. BTW What are your opinions regarding the European style health system (w universal coverage) compared to the US (which has the most expensive health care in te world - per capita)?

[@TommyTompkins]

Thanks Bert. To be quite honest, I don't know enough about universal coverage to have a strong opinion on it. What I do know is that healthcare in the US costs way too much and insurance costs are way too high. In Germany, I felt like they really cared about me and my recovery and it seemed like that was a priority over kicking me out of the hospital at the first chance they got. They also don't nickle and dime you for every little x-ray, prescription...etc. However, it's important to keep in mind that although Germany has universal healthcare, I was paying a private clinic so I might have been treated differently than the average German patient. Not sure how accessible the care that I received is to the average German patient.

[@dadsrag]

Americans flying to Germany cash-pay for the services. Cervical ADR runs between 8,000 and 14,000 euros PER LEVEL and lumbar is 30 to 50 percent more.

[@SmedleyButler1]

@@dadsrag thanks so much. any more advice? thoughts of the recently fda approved Simplify disc compared to this one?

[@hazrinanana3123]

hey man may I know how do you feel after 1 year. cab you bend to sport ....

[@Harry-lq5hu]

A question for anyone that has input: Since receiving a device in a country other than the US, with a device that isn't approved in the US. How would one receive follow-up care or get care in case of a complication or failure?

[@richardlegault8908]

All the videos that I seen from other people have had great results did they tell you before surgery what success rate is for that kind of surgery

[@TommyTompkins]

Success is relative. What the surgeon defines as success might not be how the patient defines success. Success doesn't necessarily mean that you will be pain free, but you likely will have reduced pain and symptoms. I was told that 5% of all people don't see a benefit from the surgery, so there's a chance that you might have the same pain levels after surgery. In your evaluation report, the surgeons will list your Personal Symptom Improvement Goal which is the percentage of pain and symptoms that they think they can alleviate with the surgery. Everybody's goal will be different depending on what your spine condition is, your medical history, overall health, age...etc.

[@aliciacaldera3175]

What type of disc replacement he got could you tell me name.

[@richardlegault8908]

I need 2 disk surgery 10 yrs ago where they cut out 70% between 4/5 and 30% between 3/4 ,they said I need disk fusion on them and in Canada I have to wait about 1 to 2 yrs and the surgeon in my city don’t seem to have a high success rate that I hear from other people who have had it done saw your video and about 10 other people who have had great results ,so I think I will need level 2 surgery ,is they only other cost is your flight to Germany or are they any other cost involved,sent a quote request today and will them when I get home from Mexico feb 20 thank you very much for any other information

[@TommyTompkins]

It's a fully complete surgery package that includes travel to / from the airport, hospital stay, full stay at the Marriott which is connected to the rehab center (Medicos), and all meals included. But you do have to cover your own flights.

[@josipcro]

How much is this procedure iam in edmonton alberta I have isue l4l5 so now going on 15 yrs iam 58 yrs old

[@richardlegault8908]

Also once you decide to go to Germany to get the surgery how long did you have to wait to get it done

[@TommyTompkins]

They typically schedule about 4 to 6 weeks out so it's relatively quick compared to the long waits in Canada.

[@seansysig]

How's your flexibility now several months after ADR? I'm researching this procedure as I have suffered the same symptoms.for 20+ years. On the floor for hours to maintain alignment and take pressure off the degenerated discs. Neurologists, Orthopedic surgeons, Chiropractic manipulation, Corticosteroid injections you know the drill.

[@TommyTompkins]

I'm just over 1 year and 7 months post-op and my flexibility is great. I'd say that it's slightly less than it was over 20 years ago, but it's hard to say if that's from the implants or if it's just from me being 43 years old. I have absolutely zero pain and can do anything that any other normal 43 year old can do.

[@davay1539]

Hi Tommy, I am glad that your surgery went good! how do you feel now? what discs were implanted btw? M6L ?

[@TommyTompkins]

I still feel amazing. It's been 3 years and and 3 months for me now. I have two ESP discs.

[@davay1539]

@@TommyTompkins in lumbar spine?

[@TommyTompkins]

@@davay1539 Yes, in my lumbar. I have the ESP disc at L3/4 and L4/5 levels.

[@roberttwiss902]

@Tommy Tompkins Did you / do you have any other symptoms aside from pain post surgery? Things like pins and needles in your legs/groin or squeezing pressure, hot / cold sensations? Is your range of motion for bending etc good?

[@jackattack9799]

Hey can i speak to you ?looking to get this surgery im from canada also

[@samzoomy6562]

How much it cost you

[@grampacross7386]

I have had 2 back surgeries, although I was never "as bad as you", I'm very happy with yours and my results, 10 years later. Your video brought tears to my eyes. 70 year old man who loves to hike and has for 30+ years. Continued good luck and thanks for posting!

[@TommyTompkins]

Thanks Grampa Cross. Glad to hear that you're happy with the results of your own surgery 10 years later.

[@grampacross7386]

@@TommyTompkins Hope you continue to get better and it gives you no more trouble.I do a few stretching exercises morning and evening and can do pretty much as I want. I am careful with any lifting I do. :-)

[@joepereto4690]

Grampa - what kind of surgeries did you have?

[@grampacross7386]

@@joepereto4690 Not sure what it's really called, but it amounted to part of a couple vertebrae removals. One in my neck (I have 2 stainless plates) and on in my lower back.

[@iTsjoefashoo]

Hows your back doin ?

[@JackbenchWoodworking]

That's a miraculous surgery. Did you get taller afterwards?

[@TommyTompkins]

I did! I marked my height on the door before I left for Germany. When I got back, I made a new mark and was surprised to see I was a full inch taller!

[@JackbenchWoodworking]

@@TommyTompkins I would love to grow an inch taller, but without surgery! :)

[@TommyTompkins]

@@JackbenchWoodworking lol Wouldn't we all!

[@richardlegault8908]

Could you tell me the cost around for the surgery,sent a email yesterday for a quote and waiting for a reply I am in Mexico until feb 20 on vacation will call them when I get home , your video is amazing before and after thanks for any help I can get ,also how long did you have to wait once you decided to go over to Germany for your surgery

[@TommyTompkins]

Hi Richard - it really depends on what you need. They do different types of surgery there for different spinal conditions and depending on your situation, you might be a good candidate for one vs. the other. For me, I had two level disc replacement which was about 33,000 euros at the time. A single level disc replacement can be under 30,000 euros.

[@Seekingtruth-mx3ur]

@@TommyTompkins do they have payment plans?

[@TommyTompkins]

@@Seekingtruth-mx3ur Not that I know of.

[@mcuen6220]

How long did it take you to have no pain at all (bending or standing straight for long) since the operation? Thanks

[@TommyTompkins]

Depends. I had zero pain while just standing while I was still in Germany. I was instructed not to bend or twist for 3 months so I tried not to test that out. I would develop an ache when sitting but it would go away as soon as I standed up. My incision pain was worse than any back pain. I would develop a slight ache when laying down for a few hours at night but it would go away after standing up. All of this very minor pain gradually went away over the coming months but to be honest, I felt great almost from the start. Year 2 was better than year 1 and year 3 was better than year 2.

[@mcuen6220]

@@TommyTompkins thank you for your reply. Just one more question if you do not mind, did you have modic 1 changes before the operation?

[@tonybp965]

Hey Tommy. I've got severe degenerative disc disease with extensive bone spurs. With herniated disc L3-L4 L5-L6, S1 Also sciatica, stenosis and scoliosis. I have also C6-C7 bulging disc. I've had two unsuccessful Laminectomy's. Would ADR help me and what is the cost?

[@TommyTompkins]

Sorry to hear that Tony. It sounds like you're in rough shape. The surgeons go in with a microscope and meticulously clean up any bone spurs during the ADR process. Not sure if you're a candidate but the only way to find out is if you submit your MRI and X-rays to them for evaluation. It doesn't cost anything to be evaluated so it couldn't hurt to try - www.germandiscreplacement.com

[@aliciacaldera3175]

@@TommyTompkins what’s the name of disc you got would you let know.

[@TommyTompkins]

@@aliciacaldera3175 LP-ESP

[@osiris654]

My mother needs this surgery, but we’re not sure if we can afford it. May I ask approximately how much the procedure was? Thank you so much.

[@Seekingtruth-mx3ur]

I think it cost around $29K Euros per disc.

[@SonGoku-zr9nc]

How are you doing now? Are you back to 100% like you never had a back problem or will it never be 100%?

[@TommyTompkins]

Doing great! I have zero pain. 100% is a little subjective since I was dealing with back pain for over 20 years. Now I have no pain, but I get stiff sometimes and not sure if that's from the surgery or if that's just being 45 years old. Definitely not in my 20s anymore.

[@tonybp965]

I didn't know. I'm so sorry man. But I'm so happy for you. 🤗

[@user-kh1ix1xu7n]

I am from Iraq, I have a fracture of the second lumbar vertebra L2 and I have a compression in the spinal cord and currently I am lying in bed. How much does the operation in Germany cost? Please help

[@SmedleyButler1]

they wrote cost in above comment threads 2 or e places different details

[@sharathkumars9135]

Why did u wait for these many years to get the surgery done

[@CalvinSinh]

Miracle of modern science. Happy to see him so happy. Hope it stays like this forever

[@TommyTompkins]

I hope so too! I'm over 3 years now and so far so good.

[@ryanruffing9639]

I have ddd s1-L3 and am considering DrRichske in Germany. How did two degeneratd discs cause that much pain everyday? I have super bad days but not everyday. When it's bad I can't get out of bed at all. Your story brings me hope! Did you ever see Dr La man in the US?

[@TommyTompkins]

Hi Ryan - it was a long and slow process that took it's course over 24 years since I was in car accident in 1994. I feel your pain and hope that you find a good solution soon. I did not see Dr La man but I did look at many different doctors overseas including Dr. Rischke.

[@ryanruffing9639]

@@TommyTompkins I booked Dr Rischke and my surgery is August 24th! How was the incision pain, and did you have any agitated nerves?

[@TommyTompkins]

@@ryanruffing9639 The incision pain wasn't that bad. The nerve pain prior to surgery was a lot worse in my case. I didn't have much in the way of distraction pain after surgery. I hear that Dr. Rischke is a good surgeon. Wishing you a successful surgery and a speedy recovery!

[@kls-koreanlifestyle6455]

@@ryanruffing9639 how did it go bro

[@SmedleyButler1]

@@ryanruffing9639 update ryan?

[@ninosbinno8465]

Yup i been there similar its bad

[@JustinReal]

This is fantastic that this is your experience with this team who you now advocate for. However this was not how my experience went. I definitely needed my fusion. I had nerve irritation with occasional light numbness and tingling in my left foot. I had my fusion last year and Dr Bierstedt with ONZ drove a screw into my L5 nerve root and broke a pedicle bone doing it and left it that way. I could not believe the pain then and now months later . I too was walking immediately after surgery because they give you so many drugs you are walking all over . You can barely feel anything from the actual spine surgery unless you have a nerve damaged by the dr. Pain medicines don’t help that pain because they don’t work on the same receptors in your brain. All that had to happen day two when the dr saw the screw incorrectly angled was fix the surgery which is supposed to be guaranteed. It was visible on the first day I left the ICU . Instead they kept telling me it’s normal pain after surgery. Now I go home and has new MRIs gone showing multiple photos of a screw sitting in my nerve root . It’s done so much damage that most of my leg doesn’t work or toes. That’s nothing compared to how much it hurts. It’s completely debilitating.

[@kls-koreanlifestyle6455]

Do you recommend surgery to youngsters? Are you pain free and physically active?

[@TommyTompkins]

Not everyone is a good candidate for ADR, but if you are a good candidate, I would recommend it to anyone that has spent years exhausting all conservative therapies where nothing else seems to be working long-term. If you're facing a potential fusion surgery and you've exhausted all other options, I would definitely recommend it. I'm practically 100% pain-free with just a little loss of flexibility. I don't feel physically limited at all.

[@richardlegault8908]

Do you have any money when you book your surgery

[@TommyTompkins]

Hi Richard - sorry, but I'm not sure if I understand your question.

[@buddythebratcat]

hi Tommy, I met with the surgeons today. Hoping you might be able to answer some questions for me.

[@TommyTompkins]

Hi Mandy - oh yeah? Did you meet them in Germany? I'd be happy to answer your questions.

[@buddythebratcat]

@@TommyTompkins Hi, no, I had contacted them about 6 weeks ago when my nerve pain went through the roof again (I had a discetomy 12 years ago), and by chance they were here in Calgary today to meet with post ops and potential candidates.

[@buddythebratcat]

@@TommyTompkins if you don't mind, I'll send you a DM on instagram so we can chat privately?

[@TommyTompkins]

Mandy D Sure no problem. Feel free to message me on Instagram.

[@buddythebratcat]

@@TommyTompkins message sent..thanks

[@dlundine5723]

I join all others in being thrilled for you!! I don't want to be the downer, but here goes. I'm going to post the following simply because ONZ doesn't welcome reviews and I'd like people to have varied responses before deciding to access their services. I had ADR at 2 levels August 2020. I was treated very well by hospital staff and everything went smoothly. But the surgery did NOTHING for the pain in my neck and the burning down my leg. I realize there are no guarantees with surgery. My outcome is hugely disappointing and of course the cost was out of sight. ONZ does no follow-up with patients so if you get home and have concerns or questions, they don't help. Hopefully my story is uncommon. If you're considering surgery please do your homework.

[@SmedleyButler1]

omg, which did you have replaced, lumbar, spine or thoracic? A surgeon here in az says he wants to do fusion because its "more predictable gold standard" and more sure to decompress my nerve but in the meta studies I reviewed, cervic disc replacement seems so superior for theajlrity of cases. are you going back for revision surgery? which disc did they install? did you express the simplify disc that was fda approved for (at least) 2 level cervical last year?

[@user-ik7ky6nl6j]

2 years later follow up... how do you feel now?

[@TommyTompkins]

Sometimes I have to stretch a little to loosen up after a long day, but I have zero complaints and I feel amazingly good with zero pain most of the time.

[@arunchaudhary2180]

Hi In pics I guess u have L5-S1 fused and L3-4 and L4-5 disk replaced ? After fusion is it ok to get pain releife from disk replaced

[@TommyTompkins]

No, I didn't have my L5-S1 fused. That disc is still is good condition. I only had my L3/4 and L4/5 replaced.

[@arunchaudhary2180]

@@TommyTompkins thanks for reply. It's how long u get ur disk replaced ? And how u feel now do u have any restriction in life in ur movement ? Can u give me ur Instagram so I can connect you for my queries please. My Instagram is Arun.choudhary.96780

[@TommyTompkins]

@@arunchaudhary2180 I feel better today than I have the last 15 years prior to my surgery. I'd say that I feel 100% but I've lived so long with back pain that I don't really know what 100% feels like so it's tough to say. I don't have any pain and can easily stand for 12+ hours in a day until my legs get tired. I feel best when I'm standing / walking around my wood shop building projects. When I'm doing more computer work I use a standing desk and stand most of the time. I rarely sit down which I think helps a lot. Before my surgery, I couldn't sit or lay down without being in lots of pain. In regards to my movement, I don't feel like I have any restrictions but I think I'm slightly less flexible than I used to be when I was younger. But I'm not sure how much of that is being 44 years old and how much is due to my surgery. In a nutshell, it completely surpassed all of my expectations and I'm very grateful for my life changing outcome.

[@arunchaudhary2180]

@@TommyTompkins u had this surgery in Germany? Which country u belongs to ? For How long u have to stay there after surgery ? What was approx expense of surgery ? Your reply will help me to plan my surgery

[@TommyTompkins]

@@arunchaudhary2180 Yes, I went to ONZ in Germany and Dr. Bierstedt was my surgeon. I live in Minnesota. I was in Germany for just over 2 weeks (1 week in hospital and 1 week in Medicos - their rehab center). The cost can differ from patient to patient since we all require unique treatment plans, but my 2 level disc replacement was 34000 euros 2 years ago.

[@brijeshrudani1764]

How are you doing now Tommy?

[@TommyTompkins]

Doing great!

[@kasalica85]

Hi Tommy, how do you feel now?

[@TommyTompkins]

I feel great! Today marks my 5 year surgery anniversary :)

[@kasalica85]

@@TommyTompkins Glad to hear that :)

[@davidkirsch509]

I had exactly the same experience awesome Doctors and surgeons and also rehab till one year in my disc in my neck disintegrated my Doctors were willing to rectify but ESP disc company no comparison no assistance THERE are better discs out there DO not touch ESP 🚨🚨

[@TommyTompkins]

Interesting. Sorry to hear that. I'm not familiar with any other cases where the ESP disc has disintegrated. Did you have an infection or something?

[@davidkirsch509]

@@TommyTompkins no nothing of the kind well due to the disintegration the two metal plates tubing against each other a bacterial infection started all of this is on record with the French medical authority the construction of the esp cervical disc is in question stay away there are better discs M6 FDA approved

[@kls-koreanlifestyle6455]

Hi David. Did you go to ONZ spine?

[@SmedleyButler1]

omg, I thought it seemedile too.simplr a compound. I mean I assumed the design would be lime esp, like automobile or skateboard bushing but made of more bioineert stuff. Is the recently fda approved simply disc better? What about the m6? they both look impressive.

[@zachw4825]

what was the cost?

[@SmedleyButler1]

in 5 replies above

[@__sankarapandian_23]

Can u able to run

[@yanaisahernandez6194]

😍😍😍🙏🙏🙏

[@user-pd9vm9ts1o]

Had mine done in 2014 by Dr. Bernd illerhaus cervical 2 levels M6

[@TommyTompkins]

Dr. Illerhaus is a great surgeon. How are you doing now?

[@TommyTompkins]

@PaleBlueDot Visit www.onzspine.com and fill out the form there to start the evaluation process. They will evaluate your MRI and X-Ray and let you know if you're a good candidate for surgery. If you're found to be a good candidate, the evaluation will include their findings, proposed treatment plan, and total surgery package costs.

[@richardlegault8908]

Tommy do you live USA or Canada can I call you when I get back home in Mexico until feb 20 ,going to call Germany when I get home to get all the details from them thanks for any help I can get

[@TommyTompkins]

Hi Richard - I live in Minnesota. I'm doing some liaison work for ONZ so yes, please feel free to contact me at your convenience. If you fill out the form at www.onzspine.com I will likely get assigned to your case.

[@christinethomas8321]

Any updates on how you feel now currently?

[@TommyTompkins]

I feel amazing. It gets better and better every year. I'm about 3 years and 7 months post-op.

[@christinethomas8321]

@Tommy Tompkins Tommy, I followed you on Instagram.

[@kpg10]

@@TommyTompkins May i ask which exactly AD's do you have? M6 from spinal kinetics or something else?

[@TommyTompkins]

@@kpg10 I have two LP-ESP discs.

[@capoccinomarcos5056]

Hi Tommy, Glad to see you well, I can imagine how you are you feeling. I am Brazilian, Rio, Iam dreaming with that surgery, I can live anymore with pain... Can you mention the values?? All the best my Brother. From Cápoccino or simply CÁPO

[@MBB112]

How old are you ?

[@TommyTompkins]

43