[Maria]

Catching those up that follow my story re CA WC authorization for hybrid surgery~ fusion at L5S1 and ADR at L4.

Finally got to see Dr.Delamarter. Have been trying for this visit since 2003. Good visit~ not that I really want a fusion at L5S1 however, at this point perhaps it is what would be best given the even near potential for my facets to be problematic at this level. I think what I heard is it's really a toss up as to whether this surgery would be better than a 2 level ADR. Re my BMD, that seemed not to be of concern to Dr. D for reasons he pointed out on my films~ altho of course he recommended continuing with meds for Osteoporosis prevention and seeking consultation w/Osteoporosis specialist.

Overall "my" impression was what insurance covers factors into equation/surgical decision here. And then there's that fusion could be better at this level..

Mark accompanied me to this visit as well as my Nurse Case Manager and I'm glad they were able to meet, and of course felt that having Mark present made the surgeon more accountable for what he may have reviewed or said to me just because of Mark's experience/knowledge he brings to the visit and the surgeon respecting this ~ thanks again Mark.. infinity~

Ok, so I left happy with that consultation.

Next I was able to be squeezed into a cancelation slot with Dr.Regan. Mark was on his way there to meet with several other spine patients and so off we went.

Now this is a very personable office. The patients were all talking like old buddies, the staff for Dr.Regan was incredibly pleasant and they were helpful to me as best they could be on such really patient packed busy day. I ended up having to wait quite a while to be seen altho this is because I was literally squeezed in so I didn't mind waiting.. ended up lying on floor with feet on chair and one of the office staff put some paper under me to lie down on (rooms were all filled). I didn't mind if they didn't mind...

Ok, I get called into see Dr.Regan. I must say I was completely impressed with his bedside manner and the time he took to review my films and speak to me considering I was really just squeezed in on a favor for something less than a complete consultation. I really liked this man's approach. No pretense, just factual and kind. Dr.Regan made eye contact (as did Dr.Delamarter) and seemed to actually be concerned for what he heard and stated as he reviewed my films as well his take on what was what re hybrid vs. 2 level ADR.

One thing I have been very concerned with here in the U.S. is the lack of use of Cortoss for patients with less than desirable or lower BMD scores. Both surgeons adressed this issue altho Dr.Regan took it one step further and even stated considering my BMD on my hips that I seek a consultation with an Osteoporosis specialist and perhaps the use of Forteo could be initiated and definately beneficial for me with in a 6 month period of time.

Mark was present at this visit as well since he got me squeezed in and another Dr. came in first who reviewed my history. This guy was a real find as well~ talk about good eye contact, bedside manner, completely listening to patient and hearing them as well... I later found out he is a PM doc and I really would love to be going to this guy for PM ~ a bit far away for me to get to (as is my San Diego PM who is great).

This was a really good day for me despite pain levels as I saw two renowned LA spine surgeons who basically both agreed in terms of what surgery to do and why. I feel both are extremely competent and can do what is needed given the FDA restrictions at this point...

As far as the humanistic standpoint of things, well.. I would hope both surgeons are equally as skilled even being they are surgeons not shrinks...tho Regan's office staff and office rocks as far as I'm concerned. Mark too of course!!!