Clarkston, MI
A 55-year-old female asked:
i had a cervical fusion at 4-5 and 5-6, three years ago. istill experience pain and spasms. i have a plate, 6 screws and 2 spacers. what should i do?
3 doctor answers • 6 doctors weighed in

Dr. Jovita Anyanwu answered
Internal Medicine 30 years experience
Sometimes: After spinal fusion some people will continue to have spinal pain . Suggest follow up radiology to ensure that the screws and plates are in place.
4954 viewsAnswered >2 years ago

Dr. Douglas Linville II answered
Orthopedic Spine Surgery 30 years experience
Pain after ACDF: Understand, 80% of these surgeries are successful. Therefore, occasions exist when pain does not improve.
Considerations: 1) new problem above or below the fusion (pain free interval after surgery, different symptoms) 2) failure of the fusion to heal properly (symptoms, better then recurred) 3) problem unaddressed by surgery (never better)
best thing to do is be evaluated by your operating md.
4952 viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Kevin Vaught answered
Neurosurgery 28 years experience
Time for a Dr. visit: There are several potential reasons including adjacent segment disease, failure to fuse, and musculoskeletal pain. You deserve a new work-up to get some answers and relief. Good luck.
4716 viewsAnswered >2 years ago
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Last updated Dec 10, 2013
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