History of cervical dissectomy. Have ankylosing spondylitis. Disc replacement required?
Patient: I have had cervical discectomy/fusion in 2007 knowing due to spinal stenosis I was needing another in future. Which has come. I have found a wonderful neurosurgeon who is suggesting a partial disc replacement with some kind of RD cage...I m totally getting it wrong..but nervous. The fusion worked like a charm..and wandering why something different? I also have Ankylosing Spondylitis . Doctor: Hi,  Thank you for posting yor query.  I can understand your dilemma, when you are offered another treatment option, after having had a good response with the previous surgery.  The choice of surgical procedure depends on the current knowledge, patient's disease condition, surgeon's preference and the costs involved.   In 2007, disc replacement was new, and not many surgeons liked it. Now, with more experience, many surgeons prefer it. It is a safe procedure and complication rates are less.  However, please discuss the pros and cons of both the procedures before you decide to opt for one.  Best wishes, Dr Sudhir Kumar MD DM (Neurology) Senior Consultant Neurologist drsudhirkumar@yahoo.com