Hi sallyb ~

like you I had a discectomy well,actually 2 microdiscectomies and then 5 years almost to the day I ended up have alif with 4 bak cages at l4-s1. My ns wanted to try the cages alone and see how it would hold. My hubby and I were told at that time that I may need to have rods and screws added on the posterior side someday. I did wonderful with the cages for almost 3 years when I had to have the posterior surgery to add the rods and screws and I hate to say another level added (fused) (l3-4) because of micromovement. I had the posterior done last year may 3 2005 and I am happy to say I am doing very well. ;) nope,not pain free but most of my pain and numbness is gone. If you would like to join a great group of supportive people who suffer spine problems please join us at:

spine and beyond


many from this board have joined us and I believe they find the board not only supportive but fun as well. I hope you consider checking us out.


Imshirl :d

Hi imshirl,

thanks for the reply! I have heard that the fusion works well, nice to hear from someone who has actually had the op though! I will check out that site, thanks for the reference! :-)

Hi sally ~

I just want to say hi and see how you are? I hope you are doing well? Please feel free to ask what ever you want here or on spine and beyond.

Imshirl :d

Hi, sallyb, I am scheduled to have the cage fusion on june 20th. I am scared, but I can't take this pain anymore.I would like to hear from more people who have had it. I've had the discectomy-didn't work-they're only taking out one disk l5-s1, even though I have 2 herniations above that. Dr. Says to fix all would be overkill. I don't want to go back. Melto9

I'm sorry to say I had a BAK Cage at L5-S1 14 years ago after 2 lamonectomies. I have been in pain and on pain meds since! Now my right foot is im-moblie and it appears my case has moved or is not stable. I had the old fashion fusion on my neck in 1992 and it is great!!!NO CAGES... Hoping to have mine removed this year.