Active L Trials

[Ann F]

Well, now that my neck is fixed(2 fusions around the congenital fusion and 1 ADR later) I'm electing to go for the Active L trials for my L5-S1 prob. Dr Yue has give me 2 options, Germany in the next few months or Active L trial. Charite for me in this country is not an option, I don't have enough space, and Active L is slim. As much as I'd like to see Dr B again, the cost is $0 for the trials and it can be done here in New Haven. Or I can spend $25,000 ++ and go through the hassle of travel to another country. No brainer. Anyone else had an Active L?

[Brad]

Ann,

I just got two of them 4 weeks ago today. My understanding is that if the doctor is proficient in putting in the prodisc then he will also be proficient in putting in the Activ L since it is so close to the prodisc in design. In fact the active L will fit in the same keel slot as the prodisc.

I am doing great so far, have all the usual nerve issues going on but things seem to be progressing well.

Good Luck,
Brad

Hi Ann

I have an Active L at L5-S1, done by Dr Zeegers 16 September. As far as I know it comes with a keel or with very small spikes - I have the latter.

I'm not doing too well pain wise, but functionally I'm doing well and apparently the op was technically very successful.

Zeegers is not restricted in his choice of discs and he chose this one for me (could have used Charite etc etc) once he opened me up, based on my body and his experience.

From what I understand, it's very similar to Prodisc but with all the minor problems ironed out. If you have confidence in the surgeon I don't think you should worry about the disc at all.

Good luck what ever you decide to do.

Vicky

[Brad]

Vicky makes a good point. The activ L has two configurations. With and without a keel. I think Zeegers does not use the keel and Dr. B does (he did on mine). I would ask Dr. Yue which one he will use just so you know.

Brad

Actually Zeegers said to me at the consultation the day before surgery, that he was probably going to use the one without the spikes, but he'd decide for sure when he could see my spine.

As he went on hoiday immediately after my op I didn't get a chance to ask him why he changed his mind. It doesn't really matter at all but I'm just curious as to what the advantages / disadvantages are between the keel and spikes.

Vicky

[Ann F]

Thanks folks for the feedback. Think I had a keel with prodisk, I would think it gives a better fit, won't slip. I will be sure to ask Dr Y. He works with Dr B so would prob do same, with keel. Sounds like the best drs in Germany are now using second generation disks, time to get the trials going in the US.