Better to have surgery soon(er) for better outcome?
Hello, I have been getting consults on a 2 level cervical ADR surgery. Piecing together all of the opinions here is what I have;
I was told that statistically the best result is surgery within about 6 months of onset of issues. After that it is fine of course but nerve issues can/will get worse but when that will happen no one knows. But to use a number, they say things will be "worse" in 5 years from date of onset.
Things I was told will be improved by surgery:
-arm, fingers, shoulder, scapula, pain
-tingling/shock sensations etc in arm
Things that are usually not improved by surgery or not entirely;
-numbness in arm
-weakness
-neck pain
I am also hearing that activities like running and cycling will be fine after ADR's, that life can go back to "normal". Only one surgeon said that is not true vs 3 other surgeons. This surgeon also suggested a fusion partial or both levels. He was supposedly the most experienced too but very negative on prognosis and outcome. Not sure what to make of "him".
I'd appreciate any real life experiences or knowledge on the subject,
Best, Kes
|