So first thing this morning I headed to Cedar Sinai for my MRI Follow-up appointment with Dr Perri. I had been preparing myself for bad news even though I am for the most part an optimist. So I wasn't caught completely off guard when he told me the results. I have a T8(Vertebrae) Compression Fracture compounded by a T7/T8 Herniated Disc that is pressing on my spinal cord. Which is what is causing the numbness in my lower limbs.
The course of action, I need to get a back brace made, and I am to wear it for the next six weeks. When Dr Perri was talking it sounded like he was going to see me every six weeks for awhile. Which makes me believe I still have quite a long road ahead. If we don't start seeing significant improvement in the compression then the next option sounds like it will be surgery. Apparently my fracture is still compressing, which means it is continuing to injure itself. They want to keep a very close eye on the lower limb symptoms as well. It all seems very scary, and a bit overwhelming.
I called Mr Mine as soon as I was out of the hospital to let him know the diagnosis and he pointed out at least now we know what is really going on. No more guessing. I agree with him, but it doesn't comfort me much. I have definitely done a number on myself this time. And when I think of all the things I have done over the past few months I can't help but wince. I asked the doctor what "should" have happened with this injury if the ER had discovered this when I had gone in. The only thing he told me is that they would have put me in a brace immediately. I hope the 2 month delay doesn't make any of this damage permanent. I still have a lot of questions that I need to ask him, but it looks like email will just have to do. I have never felt so rushed with a doctor in my life. I was still throwing questions at him as he was inching out the door.
I know that doctors are very busy these days since if they don't see a certain amount of patients a day they can't keep up with their overhead. But, it is really frustrating for a patient Mr Mine and I discussed that as well and are contemplating seeing someone else. Just because I need someone who has at least the time to make sure that all my concerns are addressed. My Ortho guy, Dr Millstein, is efficiently brisk, but I never feel like I am being rushed through and he always takes the time to answer any possible questions I may have. So maybe I can find another Spine Specialist who has fewer patients, and is In-Network. At least that would be ideal, we shall see.
Read about my accident here.
I called Mr Mine as soon as I was out of the hospital to let him know the diagnosis and he pointed out at least now we know what is really going on. No more guessing. I agree with him, but it doesn't comfort me much. I have definitely done a number on myself this time. And when I think of all the things I have done over the past few months I can't help but wince. I asked the doctor what "should" have happened with this injury if the ER had discovered this when I had gone in. The only thing he told me is that they would have put me in a brace immediately. I hope the 2 month delay doesn't make any of this damage permanent. I still have a lot of questions that I need to ask him, but it looks like email will just have to do. I have never felt so rushed with a doctor in my life. I was still throwing questions at him as he was inching out the door.
I know that doctors are very busy these days since if they don't see a certain amount of patients a day they can't keep up with their overhead. But, it is really frustrating for a patient Mr Mine and I discussed that as well and are contemplating seeing someone else. Just because I need someone who has at least the time to make sure that all my concerns are addressed. My Ortho guy, Dr Millstein, is efficiently brisk, but I never feel like I am being rushed through and he always takes the time to answer any possible questions I may have. So maybe I can find another Spine Specialist who has fewer patients, and is In-Network. At least that would be ideal, we shall see.
Read about my accident here.
YES second opinion and maybe a little less rushed doctor would be best.
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