Are risks higher for ADR at L5/S1?

[kimber_lee]

I am a candidate for Charite ADR at L5/S1....

I was wondering if there are more complications at this particular level? (eg.hypermobility)

I'm trying to get all the possible info I can. I'm scared to death and I want to make sure that this is the best option for me. I'm only 25 so I've got a long road ahead.

Thanks,
Kimberly

[livjoyful]

Kim, I noticed you are from canada also. Where are you going for your surgery. I am getting mine done May 24 by Dr. Gurr in London, ON.(also a Charitte 111) Make a list of questions for you pre-op. Inckuding complications. There can be any number of them due to its major surgery. I guess i came to the conclusion that it was worth it for me. It is a relatively safe surgery. As far as any surgery can be safe. Mine is also L5 S1. I was told there may be residual nerve damage but that also may heal itself in a year-18 months.
Google Charite 111 and you will find alot of info.

[Alastair]

No risks start to get worse as you go up from the L5/S1 level. You start to get very close to major blood vessels.I can understand your fear of this surgery - -- we have all been there who have had ADR
Best
Alastair

[kimber_lee]

Livjoyful ~ I am getting the surgery done in Michigan....


Kimberly

[madmax]

Hi. I had the Charite disc installed in Feb 2005 by Dr. Regan in LA. I am doing great, pain free, golfing and super glad I did not have fusion.

I agree L5/S1 is the least risky level, and it gets more complicated going up. Not sure how this differs for the femal anatomy, but L5/S1 is actually more risky for men as there is a base of nerves near the path to L5/S1 that if disturbed or damaged, can mess up the ejaculation process in men temporarily or permanantly. It causes something called "retrograde ejaculation". This is when ejaculate is sent into the bladder instead of out normally. It is expelled during urination later, but if it does not correct you are basically sterile. An experienced surgeon will know this and take proper precautions. Dr. Regan has never had a case of this. I apologize for the graphic description and male oriented reply, but I'm assuming you want to know as much as possible. Good luck.

Hi Kimberly,

I live in Michigan, and I am also considering ADR at L5-S1. But so far, I have not been able to find a doctor in Michigan (or anywhere nearby) who can tell me that my insurance will cover ADR. They say BC/BS is just not paying. I have BC/BS National PPO through Ford Motor Company.
Who is doing your surgery, and when are you having it?

Best wishes,
Debra

Originally posted by kimber_lee:
Livjoyful ~ I am getting the surgery done in Michigan....


Kimberly

[livjoyful]

Kimberly,
why Michigan? Just wondering why you arent having it done here in Canada? Dont you have to pay for it in Michigan?

[kimber_lee]

Debra ~ I sent you a private message...

Livjoyful ~ I got injured at work in Michigan so I am a compensation case. So my care has been in Michigan.

Kimberly