Considering Hybrid

[mseymour88]

Hi Folks
I havn't been here in a while. Just been living/managing the pain.

I am considering hybrid surgery once again with Dr Bitan.

Fuse L-5 S-1 ....Charite between L-4 L-5

I am looking for success feedback. Can anyone help.
Thanks
Michael

[Jstuckey]

My doctor recommended the same thing exactly about a month ago, however, it got stopped short with insurance. Good luck with that aspect. I'm appealing, but it doesn't look promising. I've researched for about a week, and this site has been of so much value to know where to look. My local ortho surgeon was supportive of going oversees for a 2 level ADR if I can't get the recommended procedure approved, vs. getting a 2 level fusion (that insurance will pay for).
Any way, no real experience to share yet, other than wishing you luck with your search. There is a ton of information.
Some things I have accomplished:
1. Gotten better at using this site to find lumbar vs. cervical experiences / doctors. Some get great reviews, but might not have much experience in lumbar vs. cervical.
2. I've registered with 2 online medical sites to submit my xrays/MRIs and they called me the same day with initial info. Sending info for sure to Dr. Bertagnoli outside of Munich. He was mentioned by name, without my prompting, from my surgeon in Indiana as a highly respected ADR surgeon. That meant a lot, vs. all internet endorsements.
3. Pursing 2 nd mortgage... the interest rates are great!

Good luck