scoliosis surgery support

[dmb]

Hi, I am new as well. I am in my mid 30's. I was diagnosed with scoliosis as a teenager. It has progressed in the last 2-3 years and has really hindered my lifestyle, which is very frustrating. I have problems doing the simplest of things such as cleaning my house. Anyway, my disco gram is scheduled for march 4th and my surgery is scheduled for the end of May. I am scared! I dont know what to expect.

Does anyone know any surgeons in Baltimore, MD?
How will I feel after surgery?
How long will someone have to take care or me at home?
Will i feel the the metal rod and screws in my back?
My surgeon is contemplating the anterior approach as opposed to the posterior. Has anyone had surgery via the anterior approach?

I'm really really scared and would appreciate any input anyone would have. thank you so very much

dmb

[LindaRacine]

Hi...

Here are some surgeons in MD who treat adults:

Daniel E. Gelb, MD
University of Maryland
410-448-6400
22 S. Greene Street S11B
Baltimore MD 21201
http://www.umm.edu/orthopaedic/os-spine.html

Timothy R. Kuklo, MD JD
202-782-6574-5434
15619 Thistlebridge Dr
Rockville MD 20853

Paul C. McAfee, MD
O'Dea Medical Arts Building
(410) 337-8888
7505 Osler Dr, #104
Towson MD 21204
http://www.drmcafee.net/

How you feel after surgery depends on a lot of different things (e.g., age, physical condition, type of surgical procedure, pain management, etc.) I recommend that you get a few references from your chosen surgeon, specifically someone who has had the same procedure planned for you, and talk to them. I've known people who have had almost no pain, and others who have had great pain.

How long you should have someone with you after surgery is also dependent on the things mentioned above. At the least, I'd recommend that you have someone with you at home for the first two weeks. You'll probably be able to take care of your basic needs, but you're not likely to feel up to cooking, cleaning, laundry, etc.

Some people complain that they can feel their implants, but I think most people will tell you that they get used to the new feeling of their back very quickly.

I had both anterior and posterior procedures. The anterior approach was more painful, and the scar is more obvious. You should talk to your surgeon about the pros and cons of each approach.

Regards,
Linda

[dalmatica]

dmb,
Feel free to e-mail me privately and I will tell you about my experience. Scroll down to the bottom of this post and click on profile. It will direct you to my e-mail.