Pre Op

Written By Kyle Henderson

Friday, Jan 24, 2025

Pre-Op

Cindy is preparing for back surgery next Tuesday, Jan 28, 2025.

Background

During December Cindy had another serious back event. Her pain continued to increase and her mobility has continued to decrease to the point where she could barely walk and was in constant pain. After about 3 weeks right at Christmas time it began to relent, but since it had gotten so bad, we made an appointment with Dr Cattorini. He had been the neuro-surgeon who operated on Lance's back several years ago. Lance's surgery has been a huge success.

She had multiple x-rays and MRI's comparing her back from last year..

Diagnosis

1. Spondylolisthesis (disks out of alignment) on 2 disks. (See Photo 1). Notice the yellow arrows and the disk that has slid to the side.

2.. And one disk that has degenerated to bone on bone. (See Photo 2). Compare the red area and the dark spaces above. The red area is collapsed and bone on bone.

Exam

He examined Cindy and had a careful conversation. After his review of her medical history and treatments he said surgery was her best (and only remaining) option.  She has done injections and PT.

Treatment

He reviewed 2 choices. He recommended ALIF (See below). He said she was going to be a bit taller after the surgery.

We met with a vascular surgeon who cleared Cindy for the surgery.

Operation Expectation

  • The operation will take place at Medical City Frisco. 5500 Frisco Sq Blvd. Frisco

  • The surgery is expected to take between (4-6 hours). 1 hour to prepare for the back doctor. 2 hours per level. 1 hour to close and put in saddle block for pain.

  • Cindy will be in ICU recovery initially.

  • If all goes well she will be released on Friday to go home.

Post Op Plan

  • 2 months in a back brace.

  • 1 month of getting off the brace.

  • Physical therapy.

  • About 6 month recovery.

Not great news, but not unexpected. We have lots of confidence in the Dr after seeing Lance’s results.

We agree that she has tried medicine, shots, physical therapy and the situation continues to get worse.

Thanks for your love and concern. Prayers welcomed.

Information Links

Spondylolisthesis: What Is It, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF)

FYI. Cindy was able to ski last week by staying on the green slopes only, the doctor thought she was crazy to do it, but said she could not mess things up worse than they were unless she fell. She did not fall.

Photo 1

Photo 2

Ski Trip

Kyle Henderson
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