different opinions

[fred c]

I have the following opinions with the same MRI

· Spain-fusion c5/c6 c6/c7 and ADR c4/c5 maybe c3/c4
· India- Laminoforaminotomies from c3-c6 possibility require ADR 3 levels
· Germany- ADR C5/C6 and C6/C7
· USA - wait until I walk like I'm drunk , cant button my shirt- surgery will not make me better but when ready will stop me from getting worse.
Fred C

[annapurna]

Some of your differences can come from what each surgeon has in their toolkit. The US doctor may not have anything to offer but fusion, which he knows isn't going to make everything better. India is, from a comment I heard here, somewhat conservative in the care they're willing to offer. Spain is probably less conservative but may not have the experience to offer two level on a regular basis. Germany has the experience and, depending upon which surgeon you're talking about, tends to be a bit sporty in what he's willing to do to resolve problems. To make it really interesting, do all four clinics/surgeons agree upon what your condition is?

[laid up doc]

it would be helpful to know what the diagnosis, or diagnoses, are? how was the MRI read by the radiologist? what other investigations have you had?

[jss]

Fred,

Three different opinions? What a ... bummer! Before my double ADR I received five opinions, but four of them were all the same, which of course made my decision easy.

I know it doesn't help any, but one woman on this site received seven opinions; no two were the same.

Are these the only three opinions you've received? Have you received others that matched any of these three? Continuing to consult different doctors can be frustrating, time consuming and expensive; but perhaps a best option will begin to emerge?

Good luck, Jeff

[Tyler]

Hi Fred -

I agree with Jeff and the others. I can add from my experience that I consulted with six of the best surgeons I could find in California as well docs in England, Germany and Spain - and then fully appreciated the adage about opinions - e.g. ask six surgeons and you'll get seven opinions.

That being said, those consultations became more and more detailed and pointed as I was able to learn more - and follow up with a few docs I already consulted with. Some consensus did emerge as Jeff suggested, and eventually I was able to decide on an approach (ADR over fusion or foraminotomy), a preferred disc (I went with M6), and a surgeon (I went with Nick Boeree in the UK but also considered Dr. Clavel that Jeff used, and Ritter-Lang in Germany).

Talking to docs and their patients, and folks on these sites, was key for me and definitely helped me get to a decision with as much confidence as I could have, especially given that I'd never had surgery before and a 2-level cervical ADR was big way to start.

I know I speak for others as well in saying that if we can be of any further help, please let us know - and keep us posted on your progress!

Best,
Tyler