I had my spine fused from t2-t12 back in Jan 2008 using only a posterior procedure. I assumed the discs were to be removed, as that's what occurs in a usual surgery (the doc removes the disks and then fuses the spine). Then a few days ago I went for a follow-up, and was inquring about how to remove the metal from my back, and he told me that my discs were not taken out, but that my spine was fused properly nonetheless. I really would like to have the metal removed no matter what, as its truly disruptive during cold weather (although its titanium with vitallium screws) and because it would limit future employment prospects, but what I am curious about is, if the discs were never removed, can the surgery still be reversed? And, if so, would my back return to its previous hunched position or would it keep this "fixed" position? I would assume that, after living for nearly 4 years with a normal curve, all of the muscles and other tissue would have become used to this position and not return to an abnormal curvature even if the additional bone is removed. Another concern is are the discs still operational or are they already damaged to the point where reversal is not feasible?
I would appreciate any opinions on both removing the metal and on the prospects of reversing the fusion but still being left with a normal curvature.
Thanks.
I would appreciate any opinions on both removing the metal and on the prospects of reversing the fusion but still being left with a normal curvature.
Thanks.
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