Advice for RNY patient about to undergo 3 level cervical spinal fusion

Hi there!

Has anyone out there had Anterior cervical spinal fusion after RNY? My spine surgery is scheduled for June 3rd. I have 3 levels that need to be fused as there is damage to the vertebrae, the discs are almost completely gone, I have spinal stenosis which has resulted in a flattening on my spinal cord and I have spondylothesis which means one of my vertebrae has actually slipped out of place and is putting pressure on the nerve. Also I have bone spurs called by arthritis. All of this is putting severe pressure on the nerves and spinal cord causing terrible neck and shoulder pain, headaches and numbness and tingling down my left arm.

I have been doing a ton of research on line about this surgery to better understand how to prepare for my recovery. Because they go through the throat and move everything out of the way (this is the safest because of your spinal cord) it can cause a lot of swelling in your throat.

This can make swallowing very difficult and can cause some choking. I have read that drinking fluids can be very difficult. In the beginning most people will live on applesauce for a week or two. I am worried about my Protein and Water intake.

has anyone had this surgery after weight loss surgery and if so do you have any hints or suggestions for me on ensuring I get my protein in? I know this is going to be so important for healing those fusions.

Also if you have found a good forum somewhere that I can plug into? I have yet to find one that is operating currently.

Thanks for your help!