[Dance4fun] FW: Nanci Rowes's Upcoming Back Surgery

[Lynn Huber]

fyi,


  _____  

From: Romney Tannehill [mailto:romney at romneytannehill.com] 
Sent: Thursday, April 01, 2010 7:46 AM
Subject: Nanci Rowes's Upcoming Back Surgery




My Back Surgery

It's finally going to happen.  I am scheduled Wednesday, April 7th for the
first of two spine surgeries.  The second one will be one week later.  My
scoliosis has been getting worse these past three years.  It had gotten to
the point where I felt I just couldn't live with it the way it was any
longer. My curvature would continue to get worse to the point that it would
compromise my heart and lungs.  At this point there is a 45 degree curve
(this is huge) in the lumbar area.

The only way to correct the problem is to implant two titanium rods that run
up the back next to the spinal column.  At the first surgery the doctor
attaches screws to the wing-like bone that protrudes on the side of the
spinal vertebrae.  One week later they go back and attach the rods to the
screws. Each rod is about 14" long. Then they somehow pull the spine into
alignment.  Sounds like lots of fun, doesn't it? These rods are permanent so
my back will be fused.  Each surgery takes about 6-8 hours, which is why
they don't do it all at one time.  The rate of complication is reduced
dramatically by doing the procedures separately.  

I will be in the hospital about two weeks.  I may or may not go to a rehab
hospital afterwards.  The doctor will decide as my discharge date gets
closer.  He prefers that I go home.  Since I will be having a wonderful male
nurse named Tom to take care of me, I know I will be in good hands.  (Hot
dogs, again??) 

The surgery is taking place at the University of Washington Medical Center
in Seattle.  This doctor came highly recommended by two gals I have met who
have had spinal surgery by this doctor.  He has a long list of impressive
credentials.  We have total confidence in him and his team. 

The recovery takes about 3-6 months. The healing will continue for up to two
years.  I will be wearing a body brace for 12 weeks.  But luckily, I can
take it off to shower and sleep.  Thank goodness for small things!

Tom will be sending you an update after surgery to let you know how
everything went.  I just want to have the surgery, heal and then get on with
the rest of my life. 

Love and hugs,
Nanci and Tom 


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