1985 fusion T-4 to L-1

It was the surgery or a wheelchair in 3 months time. The operation was considered a success, But I still live with daily pain.

the surgery was very hard, as i had to wear a cast for a year and wasn't allowed to sit up for 6 months, so i spent 10 months in the hospital. thankfully, they don't do that anymore! although it was difficult, my results were excellent and the procedure probably saved my life

i had the rods since i was 12 years old, im 30 now. its the best thing my mother could have done for me. im not in any pain, i don't have flat back syndrome. i had a wonderful doctor. i recomend anyone get the rods. i have talked to many young ladies about the surgery. i have two children and i didn't have any pain pregnant or having them. and yes, you can get the epiduril with the rods in place. the bottom of my spine is fused together also and the epideral had no effect on me at all.

Before the surgery I was skeptical because I never heard about this type of surgery before then. Nor did I read up on the newest treatments. So gong in I thought it was a waste of time but after having the surgery I was impressed because my mom noticed before I did the difference. Before the surgery I was leaning towards my right side a lot and after the surgery we noticed that I was sitting more straighter than usual.

I had the rods for 21 years and had them removed 6 years ago.

I am relieved to not be paralyzed in the legs.

The surgery only lasted an hour and a half and was very successful. I have experienced a little pain recently because I've become very active with running but I am satisfied with the surgery.

Great posture at first, now I always bend forward slightly at the waist.

the first time it didnt work. The spine ripped away from the rods. the rod was in my back muscle and my spine was curved again my degrees were 85 n 65 ..i had a new rod putt in over another two surgeries in sept and october 2008