Failed back surgeries

By DannyB 1965

1 min read

Hi, I am 56 years old. Back in 2007, I was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). I had surgery which took an 11-hour operation to fuse my lower back.

In 2020, I had surgery above my fusion to open my spinal canal and also to remove arthritis off my spine. Last month I was told that it was closing back up again. My pain doctor tried injections to give me some relief but it didn't work.

Looking for advice

Now they say I am going to have surgery again in the same area as before.

Has anyone had this happen to them? If so what did you do about it?

All suggestions are welcome.

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ronfedd Member
Thank you Cody. I describe my problem as having way too many "ologists". After 2 heart attacks, at age 54 and 57, followed by stage 3 prostate cancer, stage 2 salivary gland cancer, (both in remission) and a year ago an AFIB episode, I am just happy to be on the green side of the sod.
1. Steve Tuffin Moderator
 Hi Ron, I just wanted to say how impressive your attitude is. And also, the last sentence in your post. What an excellent way of saying, 'still alive'. Take care Steve - Community Advocate
ronfedd Member
I had back surgery (fusion) in September of 19. 6 months of PT. Pain returned in April of 20. Imaging looked ok. They suggested a cortisone injection in the area of the surgery. No luck. Then they thought it was my right hip. Another injection. Then the left hip. The right foot, the right and left piriformis muscles. No improvement. They suggested we do the SI joints. I said NOPE. NO more. The thoughts were peripheral neuropathy. They did a blood test for B12. I was at 748. That same blood test showed 2 things. The (M) protein (MGUS) and positive for HLA B27. I have now (after 2 years) been referred to a rheumatologist . Seeing him this Friday. As if that wasn't enough, had a gallbladder attack same night I received the test results. Scheduled for surgery. Gallbladder removal. And here i thought the pain was "because i had a screw loose" 
1. Lawrence Rick Phillips Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="ronfedd" user-id="4260593"/> As a guy who has something like 38 screws in my back, if I get a screw loose it might take a while to get it tightened up. I told the surgeon to hold me by my heels and shake me until the screws fall out. He said loose screws are just part of his business. 😀 .................. rick (moderator)
2. Cody Leach Community Admin
 <inline-mention username="ronfedd" user-id="4260593"/> Good luck at the rheumatologist! Let us know how it goes. Hopefully it will be a productive appointment. - Cody (Community Moderator)
DannyB 1965 Member
Thank you Steve I appreciate it yes life is very hard with my back being in this bad shape I hope and pray this never happens to you
Steve Tuffin Moderator
Hi <inline-mention username="DannyB 1965" user-id="2382304"/> I am so sorry to read that you are having such a tough time. I really hope the doctors can get you sorted as soon as possible. I can only imagine how hard life must have been for you. I have never had surgery on my spine and recognise that I have been fortunate in that sense so far. I just hope all comes good for you soon, Danny. Steve - Community Advocate
DannyB 1965 Member
Thank you James hope you are doing good and I really hope there is another way besides surgery not too promising though you have a good day
James Hollens Moderator & Contributor
Hi <inline-mention username="DannyB 1965" user-id="2382304"/> , so sorry to hear you have had such a hard time! I really hope this surgery works for you and gives you the relief that you need! All the best, James (Community Member)
DannyB 1965 Member
Thank you and yes I always get more than 1 opinion unfortunately this is the 2nd doctor to see my mri and they both told me the same outcome my back basically shot
KJDH20 Member
<inline-mention username="DannyB 1965" user-id="2382304"/> it sounds like you’ve really been through it. I’ve thankfully never had to have back surgery but care for post op spine and orthopedic patients for a living. Unfortunately, it seems like I see the same patients over and over again for repeat procedures. I would only suggest making sure you have an open and trusting relationship with your surgeon, and it’s never wrong to get second or more opinions. I wish you all the luck and hope you can get as much relief as possible. 
1. Lawrence Rick Phillips Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="KJDH20" user-id="4217768"/> I have. Though not as many as you have had, I have had two of these and will have another likely next year. I wish you the very best. rick - moderator 
2. DannyB 1965 Member
 wish you luck next year hopefully it goes better and wish you the best for a fill recovery