Recently I saw Gail back for follow-up for her flat back syndrome revision surgery.  She was doing great, but told me that she never saw her Blog entry that she wrote up several months earlier and emailed to me.  My Bad!  I get quite a few emails every day, and do my best to handle them quickly and thoroughly, but somehow this one fell between the cracks.  

So here it is Gail — thanks for sharing, and I apologize for the delay.  Thanks for also taking the time to share.

Dr. Lloyd Hey — Hey Clinic for Scoliosis and Spine Surgery

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12/18/2009

Dear  Dr. Hey, Hey Clinic staff, and Duke Raleigh Hospital,
    
    Since it’s a bout midway in my first eight weeks of recovery I wanted to let you know that my recovery is proceeding exceptionally well..My initial contact with you was a request for a second opinion.  Having  had a previous surgery elsewhere, I wanted to determine if the treatment for my flat back was still surgery, what kind of surgery, and what would likely be  the outcome. In addition to  responding to your comprehensive form  I independently wrote a detailed  chronology of my long standing lumbar naturopathies .   
     
    My problems had been further exacerbated by our relocation from NY to  AZ, and finally NC over the past 7 years as my severely degenerated lumbar spine continued to deteriorate.  I had endured numerous conservative therapies from strength/conditioning, steroids, both oral and injected, nerve blocks, high radiofrequency ablations, electrical stim, and of course, oral medications for inflammation, spasm control, and pain.  I shared that both previous surgeries had improved the quality of my life as it was, but there was so more to do, and in a downward spiraling  environment .  I didn’t want to hold anything back giving you the opportunity to tell me my expectations for further improvement were unrealistic.  The odds given my age, fitness level, and opioid tolerance  would make me a poor surgical candidate.  
     
     As  it happened you felt I was a good risk and we proceeded with the surgery on November 11th. I had very positive experiences at my visits to the Clinic and at the Duke Raleigh Hospital. I want to sincerely thank you, Dr. Hey, Jennifer, and Dr Watters for your superior surgical skills.  I also wish to thank Dr. Rieker from Pain Management for his efforts to manage my discomfort, the kindness of the physical and occupational therapists for their patience , and finally the many nurses whose caring and helpfulness made my stay productive and comfortable.  Through all of your efforts I am now already enjoying a more pain free existence.
     
    I would like to extend my sincere best wishes to you all for a wonderful holiday .  
     
    Warmest Regards,
     
    Gail