Thread: Decision Week
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Old 10-31-2010, 03:30 PM
Steveski Steveski is offline
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Join Date: Oct 2010
Posts: 2
Default Decision Week

After waking up one morning with my right arm in pain and numb, I have been diagnosed with a severe bone spur at C6 causing a pinched nerve to my right arm. After 6 weeks of Dr visits, cortisone injections, and head traction, Dr. Siddique at Cedars Sinai recommends a 2 disc replacement. (I have a moderate bone spur at C5.

So this week I have to decide (after 2 more cortisone injections) whether to have the three vertebrae fused OR get two disc replacements. The fusion is covered by insurance, the disc replacements are $20K. While I am happy to trade a new pool and jacuzzi for my health, this isn't going to be an easy decision.

I'm 46, very active - into yoga, weight training, hiking and motorcycle riding (all electric!!). Any words of encouragement or advice appreciated! I am looking at this as an upgrade, but the idea of being put "under" is a bit spooky
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- Moderate to severe degrees of foraminal stenosis, C5-C6 and C6-C7.
- Cervicothoracic scoliosis
- RECOMMENDATION: 2 Disc Replacement (ProDisc)
- BCBS Insurance Not Covered
- Fusion Option available and covered by insurance
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