Yesterday I received this note from a patient today, who had a failed microsurgery laminectomy performed elsewhere several months ago, and had severe postoperative pain and leg weakness.
A week ago yesterday, I performed a 2 level revision decompression and fusion, here at Duke Raleigh Hospital.
Intra-operatively, it was interesting to see that the amount of scar tissue in the area of the spine was actually larger than the skin incision.
Therefore, although surgery may look less invasive at the skin level, it is more important how successfully things can be fixed at the deeper spinal level.
His one week report is below.
Lloyd A. Hey, MD MS
http://www.heyclinic.com
Hey Clinic for Scoliosis and Spine Surgery
Raleigh, NC USA
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Dear Dr. Hey,
Although it is premature for a full evaluation of my condition, I do want to thank you for allowing me to get the first several nights’ sleep I have had in almost a year! What a blessing! I have not had any of the “old” pain in my leg since the surgery. Of course I have pain from the surgery, but the pain medication keeps that to a minimum. I am walking every day, and am getting stronger. You have given me hope and an optimistic attitude about my situation.
I also want to thank your staff for their kindness and efficiency. You have an exceptional team! They are all very professional, and couldn’t be more pleasant to work with. We have found the “Surgery Education Manual” most helpful. We refer to it often.
You had stated that I would be well taken care of at the hospital, and you were certainly correct about that. Everyone there was terrific. I have never had better care (and from my medical records, you know I have been in several hospitals over the years). The nurses were all very attentive and personable.
Thanks again, Dr. Hey. I will keep you posted regarding future results of my healing, and hopefully in a few months, I’ll have a great report for your “testimonials.”
Best regards,
Jim
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Lacrosse (LAX) Neck Injury: C67 cervical fracture with severe arm numbness and pain, fixed today C67 foraminotomy and instrumentation/fusion
He had immediate severe pain and numbness and some weakness in left upper extremity, and came off the field.
His arm pain and numbness down into middle 3 fingers continued post-injury, but he did not complain of neck pain.
X-Rays of cervical spine were normal.
Physical exam showed sensory deficit in L hand in middle 3 fingers, and weakness in L triceps.
MRI showed possible facet fracture on L C67 with foraminal nerve root encroachment, but no spinal cord injury.
MRI flow through the adjacent vertebral artery was normal, although there was fracture of bone around artery.
CT Scan, shown here shows the facet fracture with foraminal narrowing.
He presents today for surgery, for C67 foraminotomy, to remove the broken bone fragments pressing on the nerve, followed by C67 plate fusion with a small titanium plate and screws, and bone grafting using local bone. An intra-operative photo, showing the plate and bone graft is shown.
Surgical time 1 hr 50 minutes.
Estimated Blood Loss 25 cc.
He will spend the night in hospital with his family, here at Duke Raleigh Hospital and go home tomorrow.
LEARNING/LESSONS: Lacrosse coaches, trainers and players should seek to prevent spearing injuries, which can cause severe cervical spine fractures, and spinal cord / nerve root injury. “Spearing” occurs when the head is driven into another football or lacrosse player, and then the cervical spine buckles under the high load, causing fracture and possible disclocation with cord and nerve root injuries common. Spearing has been outlawed in football, but is less well known in lacrosse and other sports.
Fortunately this young gentleman should have complete recovery.
He just woke up from anesthesia, and is moving his arms and legs well.
Lloyd A. Hey, MD MS
http://www.heyclinic.com
Hey Clinic for Scoliosis and Spine Surgery
Raleigh, NC USA
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