Loose pedicle screw

[mtheta]

Hello,

I am new to this forum and sure wished there was something like this around when I had my surgery. I had my surgery when I was 16, I am now 23. I was looking in the Adult forum but could not find anyone close to my age group so I thought I would post my question here.

I recently found out that I have a loose thorasic pedicle screw and am awaiting medical advice from my Ortho Doc (3 weeks). The waiting is just killing me. I have pretty much decided that I will need to have rod removal surgery whether is be partial or full. I am leaning towards full because I am young and recovery will be easier and the thought of what other hrdware complications might occur over the next 10, 20, 50 years is a little scary.

No one is able to answer my questions. What does a loose pedicle screw mean? Will I need surgery? I the surgery major like the first? I have Titanium Harrington rods and I believe that technique was discontinued soon after my surgery. Has anyone had experiences with rod removal? It has almost been 8 years since the surgery and I have been pain free until the last year.

Any insight, or information would really help.

[LindaRacine]

Hi...

I responded in another thread for you, but wanted to add that Harrington rods were never manufactured in titanium.

Be sure to do some research before heading back to surgery. Removal of implants is sometimes helpful in reducing pain, but if there is any problem with the fusion itself (and the surgeon can't always tell), your curve could return almost overnight. My advice would be to get a second opinion to get some confirmation that you're doing the right thing.

Regards,
Linda

[mtheta]

Hi Linda,

I am having my doctor fax me my surgery report to figure out exactly what hardware I have in there. I will be seeing the ORTHO specialist in 3 weeks. I am hoping for major answers then.

Just trying to get a general sense of how common this is.

Thanks.

[ScoliMed]

I had to have rod removal 10 months after my first surgery. It is not nearly as bad as the fusion/instrumentation, but it is still major surgery. I was only 16 at the time, which was probably also advantageous. However, I was back in school 10 days later, though with much pain! In my case, my fusion had not taken (which was why the rods were removed...so I could have it redone), so I had extra problems. Most likely your fusion is fine, and removal should not cause problems. The screw being loose is likely to mean that it has either displaced from the bone it was screwed into or from the rod. Either way, if it is indeed detached, I would get it removed so you don't get soft dissue damage (I had a loose hook that did this). If it is just loose and not detached, talk to your doc and get a second opinion on the best option. Good luck!