Just got back from seeing the Neurosurgeon for my 8wk check-up at the hospital.
Got Good News, Mmmmm News, Bad News and some Shocking News...
First the Good News: The Neurosurgeon is very happy about how things have gone and says I can get back to living my life. Can now drive, go on public transport and more importantly, take the camera :)
The Mmmmm News: The numbness in my hands may or may not heal. Only time will tell as there is no way of knowing. Already knew this so no real change. At least the pain is gone and I've got movement in my neck again.
Now the Bad News: My voice might be staying like this for some time. One of the things that can happen during the surgery is one of the veins taking blood to the voice box can become compressed and that can cause "Vocal Cord Paralysis". I'm being referred to specialist for assessment and treatment, but been told to expect the voice to stay like this for about a year!
Finally, the Shocking News: During the talk with the neurosurgeon I asked if there was anything I had to look out with carbon fibre plate, tell-tale signs of something going wrong. He looked at me, looked at my notes and said, "We didn't put a plate in. Weren't you told?"
Apparently they decide during the operation if they are going to put a plate in. They look at the situation when your neck is open ans assess if it is needed. In my case, they thought I wouldn't require a plate screwed in to my spine as I was young, physically fit and active before the problem. I should've been told the day after the operation, but I wasn't!
So, I'm happy that all has gone well and that I can get back to 'life', but a bit shocked about not having the plate put in. Part of my is a little disappointed about that, but mostly I'm happy about not having a plate in there as it could just be something else to go wrong. Also if I need further surgery on my neck at a later date, not having a plate there will make it easier.
My next appointment with the neurosurgeon is in two months. Hopefully by then I'll have seen the vocal/speech specialist.
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