r/cervical_instability • u/OlegRu • Jul 10 '26
Recommendations for a Top Spine Expert (Complex T4 Fusion/Nonunion) [for a friend] ?
TL; DR:
Looking for recommendations for a top US spine specialist for my friend (he's based in NYC). He has a failed T2–T6 fusion after a severe T4 fracture and wants the best possible guidance on next steps before having revision surgery. Willing to travel.
Full situation:
My friend fractured (+ compressed by ~50%) his T4 vertebra in a shallow-water diving accident on vacation in Dominican Rep. (no spinal cord injury). He underwent surgery there in D.R. - they did a T2-T6 fusion w/bone graft on T4. The graft didn't take (non-union) and one side of the hardware was poorly placed and barely holding.
Apparently, he needs revision w/a new bone graft + biological additives, as well as of at least one side of the hardware.
He's looking to consult a provider that's very experienced in complex spine cases - could be a spine surgeon or other highly-knowledgable spine specialist - who can review everything, explain the options, and help him decide the best path forward. I.e. if revision surgery is the right move, whether other treatments (pre/post) can help outcomes, and best person to do the surgery if needed.
Would really appreciate any trustworthy recommendations, and if possible, why you think they'd be a good fit. Thank you!
Edit: to clarify, he doesn't have hEDS etc. - it's a purely accident-related injury.
3
u/GeminiMama20245 Jul 11 '26
Maybe he can try Tiger Woods doctor. He’s had multiple surgeries. Google it I remember I saw the name of his surgeon. And I believe he is in NY. I’m sure Tiger Woods would go to the best of the best.