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Originally Posted by t.hynes31
Good Morning Everyone,
I am new here and looking for information. I have been dealing with constant back pain for over 8 years. I am trying to find information regarding ADR and fusion combined. My L4-S1 are degenerating, the disc space between L5-S1 is basically gone at this point. I have had Dr's in my area offer either a multi-level fusion or to do a One level fusion with the possibility of having to undergo another surgery within 5 years.
I have been doing research, and searching for other Dr's who offer ADR- Which seems to be VERY hard to find in the Florida area. If anyone is around this area, or knows an amazing Surgeon who performs ADR combined with fusion PLEASE help!
I greatly appreciate responses, Thank you!
Tiffany
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Dear Tiffany,
For this type of surgery, you may have to travel. One of the best I've heard of in the United States is Jack Zigler of the Texas Back Institute in Plano, TX. I'm also not sure how much insurance will cover if any. Although the FDA has approved certain ADR's at one level, I don't believe they've approved them if they're adjacent to a fusion. You might be able to get the fusion covered, which is more expensive, and pay for the ADR off label. There are a number of surgeons in Europe who can help you if you're willing to pay and have no expectation of insurance reimbursement. The best ones I've heard of on here are Dr. Pablo Clavel in Barcelona, Mr. Dare in the U.K. and Dr Bierstedt in Germany. To go overseas, you are looking at $40k and that's without the flights. Most packages include hotel, hospital, surgery, etc. If you're willing to get a fusion, the hybrid approach may be most cost effective. Even if insurance doesn't pay for ADR, you are covered for most of surgeon costs (certainly for the fusion), anesthesia, hospital, etc if all done in one surgery.
I hope this helps.
Gene