ANA Discussion Forum

Post-Treatment => Post-Treatment => Topic started by: ColleenS on April 06, 2017, 08:51:38 am

Title: Leak Question
Post by: ColleenS on April 06, 2017, 08:51:38 am

I am getting ready for surgery (May 2 @ Vanderbilt) and was wondering how long potentially one could get a CSF leak after surgery? I like so many others live in another state. Also, for those who have had that happen, I have read it is painful to get the drain in. Someone said they would NEVER do it again without being put to sleep. Was that true for you?

Thanks,

Title: Re: Leak Question
Post by: Paul Dembo on April 10, 2017, 08:21:59 am

I just had surgery on 3/13/17 and needed a drain for a CSF leak.  The process was painless and not unpleasant at all.  I was not put under but had some local sedatives.  I was awake and lucid during the process.  Don't worry about the drain, if one is required.

I realized the leak on day 5 after surgery.  It was small but enough that the drain was warranted.  The drain was left in for 3 days and I was released from the hospital.

Title: Re: Leak Question
Post by: ColleenS on April 11, 2017, 10:15:28 am

Thanks, Paul!!  :)
I think so many unknowns are what makes this whole experience so difficult. How are you doing now? What kind of surgery did you have?

Title: Re: Leak Question
Post by: ColleenS on May 18, 2017, 11:47:32 am

Paul, well I did end up having to also get a lumbar drain put it. I did not have an uneventful experience as you but I made it. I found it to be painful and unpleasant, but of course very necessary. I am hopeful that I will not leak again. I am 5 days since my last surgery and fingers crossed that all holds. I am currently taking a pill 2x a day to reduce my CFL that I apparently produce and an overabundance of.