I have an annular tear at L5-S1 and I am going in for anterior/posterior fusion with pedicle screws on Tuesday. I have exhausted all non-invasive treatment and everyone feels this is the best option left. I cannot sit without pain and my quality of life is one step above a poop fly. I cant wait until this is over!
My discogram 2 years ago did show the annular tear but the pain was only recreated once. It has to be recreated twice to merit a positive result but I think the valium may have clouded my judgement at the time. The latest discogram reacted twice though my judgement was still cloudy. They also found a tear at L3-L4! Asympotmatic. I heard THAT before.
I'll let you know if the fusion fixes this pain issue.
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 12/16/03 Work Accident
Herniation and DDD at L4-L5
4/1/05 Discectomy
Epidurals and facet injections
5/15/06 Discogram confirmed L4-L5 DDD also an asymptomatic L5-S1 tear
10/24/06 L4-L5 Prodisc surgery with Dr. Goldstein
CAT scans & X-Rays show ossification
Trigger Point Injections, Medial Branch Blocks, Acupuncture, Weekly Deep Tissue Massage
10/27/08 Discogram (positive L5-S1) 
11/25/08 L5-S1 fusion with Dr. Goldstein
FAILED BACK SYNDROME
Liberty Mutual WC
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