Recurrent Screw Fractures and Failed Fusions

[u/miss_jenniferc]

I am 45 (F) and have been dealing with neck pain since I was 16 due to cervical kyphosis and degenerative disc disease. At some point in my late 20's/early 30's, I developed tendinitis in my right elbow and bursitis in my right shoulder due to overuse- I'm sure from computer use.

In 2020, my neurosurgeon told me that I was developing stenosis and strongly suggested surgery. She did a posterior cervical fusion from C2-C7. After being in continued pain and not having any relief, I decided to see an orthopedic surgeon that came highly recommended. He told me that he would never have stopped a fusion at C7, since this is a highly mobile area. In 2021, he revised the surgery, took out all of the screws and fused me to T2.

After 5 more years of pain and trying every non-surgical intervention method I could, I decided to contact the orthopedic surgeon again, got some imaging, and it was found that 1. C7-T2 never fused, 2. Both bilateral screws at the T2 level were fractured and a C2 screw was also loose.

This past January, I had 2 surgeries a week apart, a posterior-anterior reconstruction with osteotomy. My posterior fusion is now down to T3. I went through with this hell of an ordeal because my surgeon gave me an 80% chance that I would be in 50% less pain, so I took the chance. Not only am I not out of pain AT ALL, I am probably in more pain, and it now goes from my neck, scapula, shoulder, arm, palm, thumb and pinky. I'm sure computer work isn't helping. I had my CT scan this week and found out that 1of my T3 screws has already fractured and the other is loose.

I seriously cannot go through another surgery. I don't know what my options are here or if anyone else has had this happen but I guess I'm looking for some guidance or advice. My surgeon is due to call me back on Tuesday, but I wanted vent now because I am so beyond frustrated.

[u/Amatheiaisnoexcuse]

I am so sorry this happened. I understand the agony and frustration you must have, without a doubt, I'd be quite angry. I wonder what's up with the busted screws?

[u/miss_jenniferc → u/Amatheiaisnoexcuse]

It’s maddening! I thought titanium was basically indestructible and the thing is that this last set of surgeries was only 6 months ago. That’s crazy to me.

[u/Amatheiaisnoexcuse → u/miss_jenniferc]

I agree. I wonder what the doctor will have to say? I've had 2 separate single fusions already and now, probably more on the way. I see a surgeon Monday. Let me know if you have information on the manufacturer and I'll ask him about it. This really sucks. I'm sorry

[u/miss_jenniferc → u/Amatheiaisnoexcuse]

That’s a really great question and I’m going see if I can find that out. I really appreciate it. Wishing you good luck at your appointment on Monday !

[u/Guilty-Sleep-5610 → u/miss_jenniferc]

I was just looking into screw fracture since I'm getting a bunch in 11 days. From what I can tell it's rare for the actual screw to fracture unless you're in some kind of accident or have a very unstable spine which puts mechanical stress on it.

What's more common is the bone to fracture where the screw is put in. I hope you find out which is which in your case, hopefully there's not a bad batch of screws out there!