Comparison

X-ray #1 is Jack
X-ray #2 is Anthony

My friend's son, Anthony, had a spinal fusion surgery done less than 2 weeks ago at UMass Medical Center. She gave me permission to share his x-ray. Anthony's surgeon used the wires that our local ortho would have used if we'd had the surgery done here. I might add that Anthony is home from the hospital, requires no body brace and is SITTING in his wheelchair already.

Okay, I will admit that comparing Jack and Anthony is like comparing apples to oranges. Jack has a neuromuscular disease, "extremely poor bone quality" (to quote the operative summary) and had a 90 degree curve (corrected to 52). Anthony has CP, better bone quality than Jack and had a 70 degree curve (corrected to 20). But, I thought it interesting to show the difference in techniques and the recovery period. It makes no sense to make myself crazy over this whole thing, but I am. I might also add that Anthony had a compassionate and personable orthopedic surgeon and Jack did not -- which is no doubt the crux of why I am having such a difficult time coming to terms with what was done to Jack and whether it was in fact the "best" procedure for him. Maybe if I'd had a surgeon with a little compassion and empathy, I'd be comfortable with my decision. Anyway, it is what it is. I'm just glad Anthony is doing so well and just a little ticked off that Jack's been through hell and he's still not where he needs to be.

There, I feel so much better now!