Not an absolute contraindication to ADR
Nerve compression can complicate the ADR surgery, but it does not prevent the attempt. My disk was pushing the left S1 nerve root around, although I only had S1 symptoms for a few weeks after the initial injury in 2004. My surgeon reviewed the MRI with me and pointed out that he would have to dig a little more to get all of the disk material, as it had also migrated a little inferiorly behind the top of S1. The contingency was that if all of the disk material could be removed, he'd do the ADR. If any component could not be reached, he would change mid-operation and perform an anterior fusion.
I was told that fusion would not result in much chance of pushing the remaining disk material around but that the ADR, with the moveable disk insert, could put pressure on any disk material left in the spinal canal, possibly causing recurrent or new symptoms.
See a qualified surgeon and review the MRI with him/her. Good luck.
-tc-
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L5-S1 rupture 11/04, left leg pain for 2 wks
Regular exercise/pain-free until 2007
L5-S1 degen. disease w/constant pain since 6/07
PT, ESI, SI jt injections, 3-level nerve root inj. x 2
Massage, heat, ice, TENS, etc
L5-S1 Charite Jan. 19th, 2009, very happy w/decision
New back pain in upper back though.
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