I had radiation in 2009 and fell into the dreaded 2-3% and had regrowth. Regrowth after radiation does make the tumor a bit more difficult to remove. The doctors explained to me (before and after my regrowth) that radiated tumors have a thicker consistancy than non radiated tumors, much like a scar tissue. when they remove the tumor they "peel" it away in layers, eventually getting closer to nerves such as the facial nerve in my case. When the tumor is radiated, the "peeling" is more difficult. I am now 15 days post surgery and the doctors were able to remove 97% of my radiated tumor while save the facial nerve. I have NO facial paralysis. They left a small piece of the tumor on the nerve, tried to remove it a few times while they were in there, but the electro pulses things were showing too much damage so they back off, they even said the piece they were trying to remove may have been skin, and the chances of regrpwth now are so very slim for me.
You need to make the best decision for you, it sounds as if you might be a candidate for Gamma Knife and in my opinion this is the best option if it is an option,. It is less invasive, less side effects in the long run, and less recovery. If this is not an option, surgery is ok, I was so scared going into it, but now, 2 weeks later, im getting back to my normal self.. good luck, and let us know how it goes!
