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Problems with metal work from 1994 fusion.

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caroline79096
caroline79096

Hi I had a full spinal fushiom and ribs taken out. Many years ago now. But now I'm in agony. Neck lower back and also top of spine/Rib/ Metal work My new specialist thinks a hook or two may hanyooneoff. Which I think he's probly right. Can't have an m r i last one I started to over heat. And now have major fear of them. Going for s c t mylogram I believe soon. Iv had one before. Has anyonr else had bits break it off? Im now 42 and in agony. This plus c o p d arthritis so on.

1 like, 5 replies

5 Replies

  • Carolineq8
    Carolineq8 caroline79096

    Posted

    I had a fusion in 2003 and had pain ever since but the past few years have been a nightmare, Iv had all the tests and MRIs but never an X-ray or ct scan until last year, these will show up any metal wear failure or bone that hasnt fused, an MRI won't. 

    I also developed a cyst on my thoracic cord and now have cervical degeneration, it's like a domino effect once they mess with your spine.

    For years my doc said everything looked fine and as I deteriorated he said it was wear and tear.  I just went to see a private neuro and he told me there was no fusion and could offer me revision surgery, I'm currently laid up because I can't walk further than the bathroom and have excruciating nerve pain in my legs and feet so it looks like the opp is happening.

    Ask to have a standing X-ray as well this could also show any damage to metal wear.

    I hope you get some answers but don't let them fob you off, you know if something's wrong no matter what the scans read, Iv gone for 14 years telling them something wasn't right and never knew that the MRIs I was having would not show up the failed fusion Iv had from the start, good luck and let me know how your scans go 😊

    • caroline79096
      caroline79096 Carolineq8

      Posted

      Thanks for the reply. I had standing x rays few weeks ago. He said looks like something's pinged off... This last weeks been horrendous I'm on liquid morphs me plus all the rest still in agony. Like you i can hardly walk.

      X T mylogram asap glad I didnt get in the m r o now last time o was literally cooking. Like you say they don't show the metal work properly. Had months of stress for nothing. Keep in touch as don't see many like us who have problems afterwards. I think metal work does tend to wear after many years. Really don't fancy that big op again..... Almost didn't wake up last time. 24 years older now lol. I'll reply if any news x

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