I know some of you here have had successful revision surgeries, but I just can't make a firm decision in my own case.I was born in 1967 with infantile idiopathic scoliosis and my condition was ignored until my curve had reached 50 degrees aged 7 when I was given a milwaulkee brace which I wore for 2 yrs.No further follow up treatment was given as the doctor believed it would not be possible to operate when I was 15.So at age 15 he was astonished to find the curves had reached 110/60 and I ended up being passed from one surgeon to another until I found one who was willing to try.I had halo traction which caused neurological damage at L5/S1 and when he tried to correct the curve on the table it was so rigid that he could not insert the harrington rod in 1983.So I had one of those old style fusions,just bone graft and no instrumentation.I recovered quickly and went on to lead a normal life in every respect.
However 21 years later the curve is appearing to progress slowly again.I don't have severe pain apart from occasional neck problems due to degenerated discs, and the curve seems to measure above 120 degrees.I was fused T3 to L1 and although the fusion seems solid the curve is moving up to T1 and curving below the fusion.The risks of repeat surgery and breaking the old fusion and attempting to realign it are classed as huge.I'm not so sure I want to take the chance with doctors that I cannot trust.I have discussed the possibility of travelling to USA for this surgery but my insurance company may not pay for it.
I'm curious to know what risks your surgeons told you were associated with this revision surgery. My lung capacity is 50% and I have restrictive lung disease.This may be my last chance to do something now before I become too old or too breathless.
Any thoughts?
Sinead.
However 21 years later the curve is appearing to progress slowly again.I don't have severe pain apart from occasional neck problems due to degenerated discs, and the curve seems to measure above 120 degrees.I was fused T3 to L1 and although the fusion seems solid the curve is moving up to T1 and curving below the fusion.The risks of repeat surgery and breaking the old fusion and attempting to realign it are classed as huge.I'm not so sure I want to take the chance with doctors that I cannot trust.I have discussed the possibility of travelling to USA for this surgery but my insurance company may not pay for it.
I'm curious to know what risks your surgeons told you were associated with this revision surgery. My lung capacity is 50% and I have restrictive lung disease.This may be my last chance to do something now before I become too old or too breathless.
Any thoughts?
Sinead.
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