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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 answers6 doctors weighed in
Dr. Jovita Anyanwu
Internal Medicine 32 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.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Douglas Linville II
Orthopedic Spine Surgery 32 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.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Kevin Vaught
30 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.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Last updated Dec 10, 2013

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