ADR and Disk Space

[Vivian]

For you seasoned ADR people these will probably sound like some really dumb questions. But here goes anyway.

Can you have ADR at a level that you have had failed fusion ?

If you the surgeon was unable to to get enough disk height in the disk space with interbody fusion would he be able to do that with ADR? (still have foraminal stenosis) Specifically the surgeon almost wasn't able to get the bone between the disk space. I assume this is probably due to grade 1 spondy. Would that mean that an artificial disk wouldn't fit either? ( that is assuming the surgery is possible)

Looking for your expertise.Hopefully some positive answers

Vivian

[mmglobal]

I've discussed this with Dr. Bertagnoli. Theoretically, this would be possible only in a rare, non-union kind of failed fusion. If fusion is taking place, even if it is not successful, the vertebral bodies would not be appropriate for ADR.

If the foraminal stenosis is causing your problem, has anyone discussed possible dorsal decompression surgery?

If fusion is complete and there is no motion there, the foraminal stenosis should be somewhat benign.

Mark

[gary]

after being at the luncheon this past sunday with Dr Regan, that is a distinct possibility, depending on each individual case!
gary