Hi Fred -
I agree with Jeff and the others. I can add from my experience that I consulted with six of the best surgeons I could find in California as well docs in England, Germany and Spain - and then fully appreciated the adage about opinions - e.g. ask six surgeons and you'll get seven opinions.
That being said, those consultations became more and more detailed and pointed as I was able to learn more - and follow up with a few docs I already consulted with. Some consensus did emerge as Jeff suggested, and eventually I was able to decide on an approach (ADR over fusion or foraminotomy), a preferred disc (I went with M6), and a surgeon (I went with Nick Boeree in the UK but also considered Dr. Clavel that Jeff used, and Ritter-Lang in Germany).
Talking to docs and their patients, and folks on these sites, was key for me and definitely helped me get to a decision with as much confidence as I could have, especially given that I'd never had surgery before and a 2-level cervical ADR was big way to start.
I know I speak for others as well in saying that if we can be of any further help, please let us know - and keep us posted on your progress!
Best,
Tyler
__________________
2010 Cycling accident tripped up an old motorcycle injury
C5-6 and C6-7 disc degeneration, foraminal compromise with indentation of nerve roots causing arm pain and weakness
Aug-27-2010: 2-level ADR (C5-6 & C6-7) with Spinal Kinetics's M6-C by Nick Boeree, Nuffield Wessex Hosp., Eastleigh, UK
Completely off of pain meds since a few days post-op and symptom-free; have returned to cycling, climbing and all other activities (but staying off the motorcycle)
|