How long it takes for surgery in Europe

Pattygo · #1 (**permalink**) 01-09-2011, 05:22 PM

Hi Everybody,
I`m really considering Germany (Dr. Zeegers or Dr Bertagnoli) for 2 levels cervical ADR.
How long it takes the whole process, from the first time you call them, to the operation day? Weeks or months?
I`m showing some ischemic myelopaty in my MRI and all the doctors I`ve seen so far, in the past 2 weeks, told me that I can`t wait too long for surgery, 2-3 weeks top.
I`ve seen 5 doctors and nobody wants to do 2 levels ADR.....they all want to FUSE. I already had a fusion....I don`t want another one!
Before Germany my last hope is Dr. Fabien Bitan in NYC. They told me that he`s able to do 2 levels ADR, although I have to pay for it.
Has anybody had any contact with this Dr? Any good? Should I run?

I googled him and he seems like a good Dr.
Please, if possible, let me know how long it takes to get an operation schedule in Germany.

Thank you so much for your help and kindness,

Patty

dshobbies · #2 (**permalink**) 01-09-2011, 07:37 PM

Hi Patty,

When the going gets tough, try Mark GPN Artificial Disc Replacement ADR. He has worked closely with both doctors. Mark is an ADR, spinal patient advocate. Among other things, he can smooth out some of the wrinkles and though you can contact both doctors direct, your urgent situation sounds like it requires some intervention.

Dr. Bitan is also an excellent doctor but you'd also have to pay out of pocket for the surgeries in Germany, though usually much less expensive. Either way, I'd run to the phone to contact Mark. The man is truly a miracle worker (I speak from first hand experience).

Dale

Jessica · #3 (**permalink**) 01-10-2011, 04:42 AM

My experience - in 2006, I could have had surgery in germany 8 weeks after first email, and I was not in a hurry. I think if you emailed and phoned, hopefully you would get an answer soon. I think you can upload xrays and mris to the website for them to view.

Last time I checked in 2009, single level cervical would have been about $22,000 plus travel. I would guess two level around $32,000 plus travel.

Maria · #4 (**permalink**) 01-10-2011, 12:31 PM

Contact Mark if you've not already esp. if you're looking at options that need to happen quickly for whatever reason. Dr.Bitan has an excellent reputation from what I recall~ again someone Mark knows and would be able to talk to you about.

Good luck. Keep us updated.