2 LA Spine Surgeon Consults

[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!!!

[sahuaro]

Thanks, Maria, for posting your experience with Drs. Delamarter and Regan as I will be following in your footsteps in a couple of weeks-- again, with thanks to Mark. I am glad you had good experiences and hope these finally lead to a good resolution for you.

[Poncho]

Hey Maria,

I think it's great that you and Mark were able to orchestrate your MD appt with your case manager and that your experiences were positive ones given the circumstances. Most importantly, these separate consultations yielded simular results / recommendations. It sounds like everything is gaining some momentum moving in the right direction for you

I hope that your case manager is able to get this approved for you soon.

Take care,
Poncho

[Blairsara]

Maria,
It was a pleasure meeting you and I'm sorry to hear that after I left you had to lie on the floor because you couldnt tolerate sitting. yikes! Was the other doctor , Dr. Apostle? I'm glad that you were happy with your visit. Dr. Regan is an amazing doctor and he truly cares about his patients and finding out what is best for them. I know a lot of people say that these type of doctors like to rush into things but he definitely doesnt. So I am glad that you walked away happy
Again it was great meeting you and stay in touch.

Blair

[dshobbies]

Maria and all,

Just to play the devil's advocate... not everyone has had positive experiences with Dr. D or R and/or their staff, though I do believe both are extremely fine surgeons. Please email me privately if you'd like more details.

Also, both doctors agreed that I had four bad levels and needed a fusion at S1/L5. Dr. B, who ultimately did my surgery determined that L2/3 was not a pain generator and did a three level adr, S1/L3.

Best of luck, Dale

[fortitudine]

Hi Maria,

Thanks for your thorough report. Having followed your story for three years, I am delighted to see that you finally making real progress! Can't wait to hear the next chapter as it will hopefully be just as positive.

[letteski]

Hi Maria

I'm so glad that you are seeking some good opinions and have Mark there to help you decipher all this information. Soon you will know in your heart what you are going to do and that decision will give you the most comfort. Please keep me posted on how things are going.

You are in my prayers.