I think I need surgery, am I right?

Two years ago I had spinal fusion surgery to treat my Kyphosis. They fused four vertebra and put two metal rods (about twelve inches long) on either side of my spine.

One of those rods has suddenly (and visibly) moved in my back. I don't know whether the rod broke, or a piece of my spine broke where it was connected, or it just came loose.

I am in pain when I stand, walk, or sit in most positions. The pain starts where the top of the rod is and goes down one of my shoulders. Lately it has also began to tingle.

All of this started last Monday and on Tuesday I went to my primary care doctor to get a referal to the orthopedic doctor. The orthopedic doctor is making me wait until this wednesday (more than a week) to see him.

I think I need surgery, am I right?
Is there anyway to fix this without surgery?
Is it possible for the doctor to take out the top part of the rods only?
Is the Doctor right to make me wait a week to see him?

I don't want them to realign them. I want them OUT. If they can get messed up once they can do it again.

I at least want the top section of the rods removed. It really shows (because I'm very skinny) and that's where the problem is. The rest of the rods seem fine where they are and I don't have any desire for any unnecessary cutting of my back muscles.

yes im sure you will and the dr. who did the work may be in for some trouble if it wasnt dont right, the bone should have grown around it and hold it in place something came loose. you may want to call a attorney too. its called pain and suffering. somethings not right

It sounds like you do need surgery. Try to see if you can get in earlier than Wed.

WEll dear i wish you the best what ever you decide to do here.

It doesnt hurt to get a second opinion

ouch,

I know people who have had that kinda problem

I would ask someone to try to realine it
but I think the doc need to look at it

If your going to take our advise over a doctors I think you may need a brain scan.

I suggest a second opinion simply becase the first doctor may be reluctant to admit any fault with the initial surgery.

Why would you report Saturn for suggesting a doctor would be dumber than we who frequent this haunt in the wee hours of the morning?