Cervical Hybrid Planned April (and nervous)

[DAnn]

Hi,
Just wanted to update ya'll. Recently I found out that my insurance co (BCBS Illinois) will cover a hybrid cervical procedure (after I did a recent six weeks of PT). I met with my Dr. at Texas Back again and he made me feel very comfortable and confident in the hybrid procedure. It will be a fusion (peek cage with stem cell and donor bone graft) at C6/7 and and ADR with the prodisc C at C5/6. I also asked about a two level ADR and he said he'd do it if we want, but that he believes my results and recovery will be about the same either way. The adjacent disc disease is less prevalent at the T1/C7 level so the fusion seems to be an ok choice there. I have some degeneration at C4/5 so the ADR at the level below that should be a good help with that going forward.

I am still worried about the recovery given one wants bone growth with a fusion and not with an ADR. I'm also worried about the keels with the prodisc C, SO..... I still have some questions.

Any thoughts from you all that have had similar procedures would be welcome. I'm scheduled for April 12 surgery.

Will get one more "second opinion" (will be my 5th and hopefully an odd number will mean that at least two opinions are the same).

By the way, noticed on twitter that Texas Back will be doing a study with the cervical Active C vs the Prodisc C. I know it will be years....but should one wait if your doctor is doing a study comparing the disc that you will be using vs. a newer one? Does anyone know much about this new disc?

Hope this finds you all well as can be and enjoying the longer and warmer days of Spring.
DAnn

[catelynnw3]

Hi DAnn,

First of all, congratulations on your insurance company agreeing to cover your surgery!

You mention that instead of the fusion (peek cage) at C6/7, you also have the option of a second ADR. Just wondering if one is better over the other considering your mild retrolisthesis? Another thing to consider is if you do have an annular fissure at C4/5, what would be best long-term if that level ever needed to be addressed?

I pray that whatever you decide will be the right choice for YOU!!
Cathy

[DAnn]

Hi, and thanks for your reply!

I too wonder about the double ADR vs the hybrid, especially given the keels on the fda approved and available prodisc C. I'm thinking a hybrid might be better with this disc. I was told that the degeneration at the next level up was an issue to be confronted later, hopefully when newer technology is available (in the U.S.). I will definitely ask about these issues again.

I hope you are doing well still, and that your X-Rays looked good and that everything is progressing well. Thanks for thinking of me. I will keep you posted.
Take care,
D'Ann