Joined: 09 Aug 2007 Posts: 107 Location: Tampa, FL
Re: Hey! Posted: 08-19-07 20:32pm
lonestarguy
wrote:
Thanks Carrianne. Getting to
sleep can be a real trial sometimes,
especially after the rocking Saturday
nights we have around here!!
Seriously, are you improving daily as you
look forward to the 28th? Are able to walk
without pain for long distances yet?
I talked with my wife today about the
laser surgery and I was able to use all
the info from you and all the others on
this thread. Unfortunately, we are
planning a move back to Texas and that
means we won't be settled for another few
months.
Thanks again and toodleloo.
Lonestar
Hey Lonestar,
I am improving. I'm 6 days out and feeling
pretty good. I still have a little
stiffness in my low back but it's nothing
like what it was. It just feels like I
need to stretch but have been told to
avoid any kind of bending over/forward
right now. I'm definitely getting out of
bed easier.
And you asked about walking. Seriously, I
walked for an hour the day after my
surgery and have done between 45 and 60
minutes every day since. Though I must
admit, I was doing 60 minutes a day (5 or
6 days a week) before the surgery. I'm
sure that has helped in my recovery.
Sitting was my biggest problem and has
gotten better. With the L4/L5 surgery
coming up that should help the pain in my
legs.
Best wishes to you and God bless!
Carrianne
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Carrianne
Experienced User , Rather EHEALTHy
Joined: 09 Aug 2007 Posts: 107 Location: Tampa, FL
Re: Looking For Advice. Posted: 08-19-07 20:39pm
GatorD
wrote:
Hello,
I just discovered this forum and so glad
to find that I'm not alone in my
frustration and confusion. Three months
ago my back problems escalated to where I
had to stop working. Since that time I
have had two MRI's, a myelogram, a
discogram, and a catscan. The findings
were degenerative disc disease,
bulge/hernaition, and foraminal narrowing
at L3/4 L4/5 L5/S1 with Facet Disease in
L5/S1. Reccomendation from my
neurologist... double fusion. Visited a
spinal pain management clinic and all they
could suggest as an alternative to surgery
was a morphine implant. No thanks to that.
This is when I started looking at laser
surgery which as you all know sounds far
superior to the open back surgery and all
that it entails. I contacted LSI who said
I was a candidate, but my insurance
company BC/BS of S. Carolina said no way
to any compensation whatsoever. Time is
running out as my short term disability
ends in three months and the recovery time
for fusion surgery is at least that. I
want to thank all of you for your
informative posts and sharing your
experiences. If anyone has any hints or
advice on insurance at Bonati's or
Microspine or anywhere else, I would
greatly appreciate it. Without substantial
coverage, I will have to go through with
other. I wish all of you the
best.
GatorD,
I know BCBS benefits vary from state to
state, but I have BCBS of IL and so far so
good on the payments to Bonati Institute.
I have 11 claims that have been submitted
(various tests and consultations over the
last couple weeks) and they've paid
something on each one. The surgery claim
hasn't gone through yet, but I'm praying
real hard on that one. I was told that as
long as the insurance company doesn't deny
the claim completely, Bonati will write
off the balance and not back bill the
patient. Got it in writing of course!
Anyway, The Bonati Institute insurance
specialists track the success on payments
for each insurance company. Though payment
can't be guaranteed, they can definitely
tell you the success or lack thereof
they've had for BCBS of SC if they've
worked with them before. Certainly
wouldn't hurt to ask.
Best wishes and God bless.
Carrianne
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lonestarguy
Active User, Really EHEALTHy
Joined: 21 Jun 2007 Posts: 592 Location: , Hoosierland, USA
Thanks: 10
Thanked:1
Good News Posted: 08-19-07 20:54pm
Carrianne
wrote:
Hey Lonestar,
I am improving. I'm 6 days out and feeling
pretty good. I still have a little
stiffness in my low back but it's nothing
like what it was. It just feels like I
need to stretch but have been told to
avoid any kind of bending over/forward
right now. I'm definitely getting out of
bed easier.
And you asked about walking. Seriously, I
walked for an hour the day after my
surgery and have done between 45 and 60
minutes every day since. Though I must
admit, I was doing 60 minutes a day (5 or
6 days a week) before the surgery. I'm
sure that has helped in my recovery.
Sitting was my biggest problem and has
gotten better. With the L4/L5 surgery
coming up that should help the pain in my
legs.
Best wishes to you and God bless!
Carrianne
That is good news all around, Carrianne.
Keep up the good work and the walking to
get those legs back in shape. That also
sounds like good news for the insurance
too.
You are just a little more tha a week away
from the second surgery so good luck and
may God watch over you.
LSG
|
GatorD
New User, Becoming EHEALTHy
Joined: 19 Aug 2007 Posts: 8 Location: Jacksonville Fl
Thanks: 1
Thanked:0
Dead End On B/c B/s Posted: 08-20-07 10:01am
Hi Carrianne,
Thanks for taking the time to write. I
contacted Bonatti and they told me what I
needed to ask BC/BS in regard to out of
network coverage. Even though I have a
PPO, I was told my policy would cover 0%.
They couldn't tell me if there is even
anyone IN their network who performs
similar procedures. Not without a name.
I'm running out of ideas and fusion
surgery looms. Thanks again, and good luck
to all of you.
|
RichT
Active User, Really EHEALTHy
Joined: 22 Jul 2007 Posts: 910
Thanks: 21
Thanked:0
Best Neurosurgeon Posted: 08-20-07 10:24am
Good Morning Donald,
Donald, you have done your reesearch and
investigating very well. You haven't left
a stone unturned. I commend you for
that.
It reallky sucks when ones insurance
company won't cover going to a medical
facility of your choice.
HOWEVER, as you stated earlier, you have
the BEST neurosurgeon in your area. Even
more than that you have a surgeon who
CARES about you. When he stated he wasn't
pleased that he would have to do a double
fusion, that to me says he will do
everything he can to do things right, AND
he won't do what isn't needed. You will
be in good hands if you decide to have him
as your surgeon.
May I suggest that when you do speak with
him again that you get the details on what
he plans to do and why. And of course to
ask the questions you have in your mind.
Take care fellow.
RichT
|
lonestarguy
Active User, Really EHEALTHy
Joined: 21 Jun 2007 Posts: 592 Location: , Hoosierland, USA
Thanks: 10
Thanked:1
Gatord Posted: 08-20-07 10:36am
I wrote something to you last night but my
computer went nuts and I lost it. So, I'll
send you just a quick note to clue you in
about the fusion.
To make a long story shory, a year ago
after a discogram, my surgeon wouldn't
operate on me because my bad discs were
not together. He said if he attempted to
span the fusion over a good disc, the
fusion wouldn't hold very long. He told me
that I would have to come back every few
years to repeat the procedure.
So, I guess what I am trying to say is to
be sure you ask about the stability of the
fusion. Make sure it will hold and allow
you to flex at the waist.
Good luck, LSG
|
RichT
Active User, Really EHEALTHy
Joined: 22 Jul 2007 Posts: 910
Thanks: 21
Thanked:0
Visit With Pm Doc Posted: 08-20-07 10:38am
Hello Everyone,
I had my appointment with my PM doc today.
He seemed pleased that the nerves and
muscles were functioning okay. We talked
about the fact that I can't stand in one
spot because then the pain begins. He
said that was because of my stenosis and
that DDD was also probably a contributing
factor. And on not being able to sit in a
wooden/uncomfortable chair, he said that
was my DDD.
The bottom line of the vist - "See you in
six months". That rather amazed me and in
a way I'm pleased, HOWEVER, I want to just
turn the clock back 10 years, thats all.
Seems that won't happen.
Oh yes, I know, I have much to be thankful
for. I can still garden, dig holes, and
swing an ax now and then. A toast or two
to what I can do.
This Thursday I have an appointment with
my spinal surgeon. Will be interesting to
hear what his thoughts are.
RichT
|
joebob
New User, Becoming EHEALTHy
Joined: 10 Aug 2007 Posts: 23 Location: Springfield, PA USA
Recovery Posted: 08-20-07 14:05pm
Hello all
I just wanted everyone to know how awesome
my surgery was.
I have my life back. I feel bonati is the
best place to go as they
pioneered this surgery and have perfected
it. At 7 weeks I can do
almost anything I want. You need to look
into this before ever having
fusion surgery. Fusion should be the last
resort. One of the Dr,s at
bonati Dr Moffett was my surgeon and he
used to be a nero and was
tired of the poor results from fusion,so
he joined Bonati.He is very conservative
and will not operate unless it is needed.
All the best
Joe
|
joebob
New User, Becoming EHEALTHy
Joined: 10 Aug 2007 Posts: 23 Location: Springfield, PA USA
Bonati Posted: 08-20-07 14:21pm
Yes Dr Bonati did indeed take all the
arrows.The other Drs went out
on there own for financial gain. If you
investigate all the law suites
( I have ) Dr wolf and Dr mork were both
named when they workrd at
Bonati. Funny that every law suite was
also a workers comp case.
Anyway form you own opinion.
Carrianne and I have seen it first hand.
Bonati is the real deal.
take care everyone
Joe
|
GatorD
New User, Becoming EHEALTHy
Joined: 19 Aug 2007 Posts: 8 Location: Jacksonville Fl
Thanks: 1
Thanked:0
Maybe? Posted: 08-20-07 14:22pm
Hello Abra, Rich and everyone,
I would like to thank you all for the
words of encouragement and advice. As you
said.. no stone unturned. Reading back on
this forum, I found the name Dr. Tolli. Lo
and behold he is on the BC/BS network! A
call to them assured me that I would be
covered 100%. I have an appt. this
Thursday to take my records and films.
It's a three hour plus drive through
Orlando rush hour traffic, but seems
trivial in light of the big picture. You
all have provided hope and inspired me to
not give up. I'll be thinking of you guys
and I'll keep you posted. Donald.
|
RichT
Active User, Really EHEALTHy
Joined: 22 Jul 2007 Posts: 910
Thanks: 21
Thanked:0
Great!!!! Posted: 08-20-07 14:30pm
Hello Donald,
I've very glad you looked through past
posts and found the mention of Dr. Tolli.
WOW, and BC/BS would cover you 100%.
I hope Dr. Tolli can give you the options
you are looking for.
I'm looking forward to your "report".
Have a safe drive and a "good feel"
appointment with Dr. Tolli.
RichT
|
lonestarguy
Active User, Really EHEALTHy
Joined: 21 Jun 2007 Posts: 592 Location: , Hoosierland, USA
Thanks: 10
Thanked:1
Whoo Hoo!! Posted: 08-20-07 15:17pm
GatorD....we wish you nothing but the best
and I thinks everyone on here should take
a bow!! *bows from waist and hurts his
back*
Oh well, if we can't all bow, then let's
just give a big thumbsup to to RichT for
encouraging all us shy folks to
participate. There is a ton of great
information just on this thread alone and
it is really helping people improve their
lives.
Guy, we all are very glad you found Dr.
Tolli and even more glad that the surgery
is covered. There's nothing like taking on
surgery without having to worry about
paying for it. And the best thing is the
surgery is less invasive that a fusion.
Rich....Glad to hear about your appt.
Sounds like you are either okay or under
the radar. It will be interesting to hear
what your surgeon has to say. Good luck
with that appt.
|
RichT
Active User, Really EHEALTHy
Joined: 22 Jul 2007 Posts: 910
Thanks: 21
Thanked:0
Posted: 08-20-07 18:05pm
Hello LSG,
A very nice post indeed, and thanks for
your kind words. It is you and everyone
that makes this thread a success. Thanks
to all!!
Okay all you "viewers", become ACTIVE!!!
Quit hiding.
RichT
|
Carrianne
Experienced User , Rather EHEALTHy
Joined: 09 Aug 2007 Posts: 107 Location: Tampa, FL
Re: Dead End On B/c B/s Posted: 08-20-07 21:34pm
GatorD
wrote:
Hi Carrianne,
Thanks for taking the time to write. I
contacted Bonatti and they told me what I
needed to ask BC/BS in regard to out of
network coverage. Even though I have a
PPO, I was told my policy would cover 0%.
They couldn't tell me if there is even
anyone IN their network who performs
similar procedures. Not without a name.
I'm running out of ideas and fusion
surgery looms. Thanks again, and good luck
to all of
you.
GatorD,
Sounds like you've done your homework,
very important in making the decision
that's best for you. Best of luck to you
at your appt. with Dr. Tolli and please
keep us informed!
Just a question, did you actually mention
"laser" to BCBS when asking if it's
something they'd cover? It just seems odd
that they said they'd cover 0%. It's so
very unfair.
Best wishes and God bless you!
Carrianne
|
AbraCadabra
New User, Becoming EHEALTHy
Joined: 16 Aug 2007 Posts: 21 Location: St, Petersburg,FL
Gatord Posted: 08-21-07 10:17am
RE: Dr. Tolli
I had a checkup with my new family doc
today. He had the highest praise for Dr.
Tolli, saying he was the best in the area.
My doc used Tolli for his own surgery.
The major league baseball teams use him
and my family doc says he operated on the
famous player Jose Consueco (spell?)
Hope all goes well for you. After all
this praise for Dr. Tolli, it makes me
think twice about going to LSI.
Guy
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GatorD
New User, Becoming EHEALTHy
Joined: 19 Aug 2007 Posts: 8 Location: Jacksonville Fl
Thanks: 1
Thanked:0
Good Afternoon All Posted: 08-21-07 16:30pm
I saw my spine Doctor this morning to
further discuss the morphine pump and
stimulation system implants. I feel this
like meds treat the pain and not the
problem and certainly isn't the answer for
me. We actually had a nice conversation as
I explained I'm exploring every option and
he agreed I should. He also stated that in
his experience patients that went to LSI
have had very good results plus he spoke
highly of Dr. Tolli.
Carrianne, When I spoke to BC/BS of South
Carolina I mentioned LSI or any Laser
spine/back surgeon and she made it very
clear none are listed within the network.
My plan doesn't cover any out of network
coverage. I thought I had a great PPO
plan. Even though that door is closed we
have opened another to see Dr. Tolli on
Thursday and pretty excited about it.
Guy, From the research and my limited
knowledge I wouldn't second guess LSI,
they were my first choice.
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GatorD
New User, Becoming EHEALTHy
Joined: 19 Aug 2007 Posts: 8 Location: Jacksonville Fl
Thanks: 1
Thanked:0
Posted: 08-21-07 16:35pm
One more thing..........I have you all to
thank reading here to learn about Dr
Tolli.
Take Care, Donald
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AbraCadabra
New User, Becoming EHEALTHy
Joined: 16 Aug 2007 Posts: 21 Location: St, Petersburg,FL
Posted: 08-21-07 18:38pm
To GatorD:
When you meet with Dr. Tolli, I thought of
two questions which should be of interest
to you also. I asked him about incision
size. His response to me was 1' to 1.25".
I asked if he cut any muscle or ligaments
and he said no, he moved it out of the
way. What I did not find out was how he
actually accessed the area to operated on.
At LSI and Bonati, they insert a tube
around or thru the muscle. How does Tolli
do it and how invasive is it? LSI's web
site explains in some detail how they do
the procedure, but I never got the
information about how Dr. Tolli does it.
Second question is does he use local or
general anesthesia?
I think I may be facing some more
surgeries and I still liked Dr. Tolli.
Keep us informed...
Guy
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joebob
New User, Becoming EHEALTHy
Joined: 10 Aug 2007 Posts: 23 Location: Springfield, PA USA
Research Posted: 08-21-07 19:46pm
I am so glad to see everyone keeping an
open mind and finding
what is best for them.Bonati was great for
me and carrianne but may
not be for everyone. Its just nice to know
we have options.
I hope you all are having a great day
Joe
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RichT
Active User, Really EHEALTHy
Joined: 22 Jul 2007 Posts: 910
Thanks: 21
Thanked:0
E-mail Sent to Stephanie Posted: 08-23-07 20:19pm
Hello Joe,
Just to let you know I sent an E-mail to
Stephanie as you wished. By the way,
yoiur message to me was deleted or changed
as i can't find it now.
