OPLL and Calcification of the disks.

[joewolek]

During an email consultation/ correspondence with Dr. Yue, he asked me to see a CT Scan before he could discuss further. I informed him that I haven't had one done, and asked what that potentially might show. He said the he wanted to rule out OPLL (Ossification of the Posterior Longitudinal Ligiment), and calcification of the disks. The MRI could not show that clearly.

I replied and asked him if any of these conditions, if shown postive, would rule out ADR over ACDF. He said he could not elaborate further until he saw the CT Scan. I am trying to have one scheduled, but who knows how long that will take with Kaiser HMO.

In the research I have done, it shows that the standard treatment for OPLL is ACDF, the standard treatment for my stenosis condition that the NS here wants to do, and what seems to be the standard for what ADR substitutes for. I haven't found out as much about calcifcation of disks.

I have been conversing with Pro-spine, and have a date set for August 28th (after turning down an offer for Aug. 1st that I hope not to regret . . .). The plan is for a 3-level procedure, possible looking into a 4th (but doubtful). However, Dr. Fenk-Meyer has not asked for a CT Scan, and has voiced none of these concerns. I have sent messages, by both phone and email, but no replies as of yet. I have only corresponded with her via email, the only actual voice conversations going through Anita.

I do not want to show up in Germany and suddenly be faced with be offer of fusion because of these (or any other) conditions. I know there are no guarentees, but I at least want to hedge my bets. So, if anyomne can shed any light on these specifics, I'd appreciate it.

Thanks loads.