too old for this much pain (spinal fusion problems)

[Wilma1947]

I had a spinal fusion in 2003 that was from T5-L4 due to herniated disc and scoliosis. I am 59 years young and the surgery was very hard on me. I am now faced with extreme pain and its getting worse. I went to see the Dr. that preformed the surgery and he stated after viewing x-ray that one of the rods has fractured. He also stated that the only thing he can do is go in and replace the hardware. I was told after my surgery that I could not have the rods removed due to having osteoporosis and I also have osteoarthritis. Are there any other methods other than going Through all of it again or is this the only option?

[Dr. Joshua]

Hi Wilma- thanks for your question. This sounds like a complex situation, and it's unfortunately impossible for me to give a second opinion over the Internet, but I suggest that you sit down with the surgeon and review your options with him, then follow his recommendation - also, you can get a second opinion from another spinal surgeon.