Need help RE: 2-level ADR
Hello,
I am in need of some help and direction. I live in the US and have dealt with back problems since I was 25 years old. Due to a car accident, I sustained a herniated disc, and the tests revealed DDD. In 2010, I had an emergency microdiscectomy with significant left leg nerve damage, which required 6+ months of rehab. Currently, I'm in need of a 2-level ADR at L4-5:L5-S1. I Just turned 38, and want to regain what's left of my somewhat youthful life. Unfortunately, that time has come where I need to do something (ADR or fusion) and the US will only do a single ADR. I am, in no way am interested in a fusion surgery! I found the best ADR surgeon I could get to and made an appointment. It was heart breaking to hear that I am the perfect candidate for a 2-level ADR, but unfortunately it is not allowed in the the US. I found him extremely honest, knowledgable, patient, and he actually provided me with useful information so I could get started on trying to make the best decision for my problem.
Dr. Ritter Lang (Sternum Hospital in Germany) and Dr. John Sutcliffe (London Spine Clinic in London, UK) are 2 of the doctors and facilities I was given by my doctor here in the US. It seems there is also some debate over which is the best device on the market,Freedom,M6,Prodisc -L, etc... Then there is cost, facilities, insurance, travel arrangements, and contact info.,etc....
I honestly, thought I was knowledgable about my medical issues. Currently, I find myself in uncharted waters. I would truly appreciate any information an/or personal experience anyone is willing to share with me.
In my own self-researching on surgeons/facilities outside the US that perform 2-level and beyond ADR's, Dr. Bierstedt (of German Spine Specialists), was one of the main professionals in this area that really stood out for me with his patient success stories, facilities and number of years in the industry.
Living in pain, is no way to live. Regaining my quality of life is my goal.
Thanks to anyone willing to take the time to read and share.
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Nov.2000-Car accident resulted herniated disc.& in discovery of DDD.
10 years of pain management: Numerous injections, PT, Chiro, etc..
Dec.2010-Emergency Microdisectomy, resulting in left leg nerve damage and 6mos. rehab.
Last 18mos. increased flair-ups and leg pain.
Not interested in fusion, actively seeking better quality of life.
At present constant pain with daily activities.
Need 2-level adr L4-L5, L5-S1, just turned 38.
Surgery with Dr. Pablo Clavel, 3/25/2015, 2-level
L4-L5-S1.
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