broken screws twenty years on

[lisaria]

Hi everyone,

I had a spinal fusion op 21 years ago when I was 12. Everything was successful and 18 months later I had my last visit to the doctor who said it took well and goodbye, we don't need to see you again. Last year I had a baby with c-section and used my x rays for the anesthetist to know where to put the epidural. Somehow my x rays got lost so last week I went to have more done before I get pregnant again. The x rays show 2 broken screws and I have to go to an orthopedic doctor for a check up. Should I be worried? I've had no pain over the years even during pregnancy.

The doctor who operated me has retired and I now live in Israel anyway (op done in England) and the earliest appointment is November. I'd love to hear from someone who can tell me what the deal is. If anyone can, please ask your doctor and see what he/she says, and let me know.

Thanks a lot,

Lisa

[sweetness514]

I have a broken rod, and both orthos that I have consulted told me that as long as I don't have pain it's not a problem, unfortunately for me I have pain though.

Broken hardware is a problem only when you have pain an even then, you get to decided wether you want to live with it or get surgery again. That's what I know, but opinions may differ and each case is different so seeing an orho is best.