a few questions

[Terra]

I'm thinking I'm eventually going to need surgery. Not much success with conservative treatments. I've suffered with DDD for at least 15 years. Was able to ignore it until last winter. Now I've had this never ending flare up. Its not horrible (today anyway) was horrible-- but I am getting symptoms in my arms and hands. Localized neck pain is my worst symptoms. Just had a 2nd medial branch block which did help me. Still taking vicodin though.

MRI: I have a protrussion at C-7 to T-1. Spurring at C-6-7. Posterior osteophyte ridging at C5-6 w/an annular disc bulge and neural foraminal narrowing. And last but not least, subluxatin of C4-5! Flex/Ext plain films show sublux is still stable.

Of course I've seen a couple of surgeons whom have included ADR, one or two levels as a possiblity. One of 'em thought I'd need a fusion at the subluxation level. (FYI-cervical sublux is much rarer then lumbar and more concerning)

For now I plan to continue to bump along. Still if/when I do decide on surgery I have a perceived risk issue which will factor in to my decision process. I'm thinking a clinical trial in the US is not for me. Unfortunately this appears from what I can tell to be the only way to have a multilevel ADR procedure in the US? And even with FDA approvals in the next few years, I am worried about our US docs lack of experience with surgery and outcomes.

My questions:
-anyone know how long these replacement discs will last? Is it like knee and hip replacements which last about 10 years and revision surgery is necessary??

-i know some types of periosteal implant failures can be horrible. How are ADR revisions managed?

-I've been reading about Dr B in Germany. How do you initiate contact with him? Email or do you simply send records along for evaluation? Approximately how much does it costs to be treated in gErmany? (I know it will be an individual plan, but an estimate will be nice)

-anyone know Dr B's failure rate? Experience w/revisions?

I just want to be prepared down the road.
Thanks for your attention.

[Harrison]

It's unusual that no one responded to this topic, Terra. I emailed and PMed you, but received no reply. I am happy to help, but just need to work with you to resolve whatever communication issue might be impeding our efforts to support you.

Call or email me if you still need help; this topic is closed for now.