Cervical Diskectomy and Fusion

[AggieDad]

After putting this off for more than three years, it is time that I have two disc's removed and fused. Has anyone had this surgery? What time line am I looking at to return to diving? How much mobility can I expect to lose?
I have had two Neuro Surgeons, Two Orthopedic Surgeons, a Neurologist all say that I have no choice. My Chiropractor has kept me relatively pain free but after my last dive trip the numbness and weakness has spread to my other hand and arm. I have tried all the different treatments from physical therapy, injections etc.
The disc's are C4/5 and C5/6
Thanks for any information.

 

[adurso]

After putting this off for more than three years, it is time that I have two disc's removed and fused. Has anyone had this surgery? What time line am I looking at to return to diving? How much mobility can I expect to lose?
I have had two Neuro Surgeons, Two Orthopedic Surgeons, a Neurologist all say that I have no choice. My Chiropractor has kept me relatively pain free but after my last dive trip the numbness and weakness has spread to my other hand and arm. I have tried all the different treatments from physical therapy, injections etc.
The disc's are C4/5 and C5/6
Thanks for any information.

Depends. Anterior or posterior? Fusion w/wo plating? Cadaver plug or your own? Check with scubadoc.com when you have particulars. Personal experience anterior cervical discectomy w/fusion and plating 2 levels along w/several other issues back in water in 3 months. Second go round same thing, further 2 levels; nailed by drunk neck flexed funny where first plate was, shorter recovery, 6 weeks to dive. Due to the massive damage I stay shallow now due to controversy over bubble accretion in damaged areas.

 

[AggieDad]

I think it is going to be anterior but I have no idea about plating and I am hoping (actually demanding) cadaver plugs. I will know more Thursday.

Thanks
Timeline sounds good too.

 

[mscrog]

I have had a similar problem at the same cervical level for the past 3 years, but it has not progressed to the same point as yours yet. Baylor Medical Center in Grapevine,Tx near Dallas is one of 30 nationwide centers that is implanting artficial cervical discs that offer more range of motion and less stress on the other cervical joints postoperatively. So far, the results I believe have been good. This may be another option to be considered. Good luck.

 

[SA-Diver]

Had fusion done C5/6, C6/7 in Jan 2003. Was back in the water end March 2003.
Never experienced any problems since the operation.

Diving twin 15l cylinders with stages as well as Inspiration RB with stages. No issues.

 

[JustAddWater]

I had a cervical decompression from C-3 to C-7 in 2000 (result of an injury). I was laid up for about a month, and resumed normal activities including exercise in 12 weeks. I was able to dive about eight months later (Doctor approval). They went in through the back of my neck, and I elected to not have my spine fused. The back of my vertebrae in those sections have been "shaved" off, so my head is supported mostly by my neck muscles. I have been told that I may eventually need a fusion, in which they go through the front, if head support becomes a problem. At this point all is well, with the exception of occasional neck/headaches. Knock on wood. I'm glad I had the surgery. I was experiencing a considerable amount of pain, loss of strength, mobility, and hand dexterity prior to it. Good luck in yours. Remember: Chicks dig scars. (My wife bought me the "Die Trying" shirt that says that when we went to Cabo after I recuped).