Author Topic: Surgery and then radiation  (Read 3205 times)

JLR

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Surgery and then radiation
« on: February 08, 2017, 02:49:16 pm »
Hello all 3 months post op. Had retrosigmoid. Left 5% on facial nerve. The 5% is now grown considerable. Dr now recommends radiation to stop the growth. I had CK in 2010. Tumor started to grow after 5 years and had to have surgery. Anyone have experience with radiation after surgery.  Appreciate the help.  Joan

ColleenS

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Re: Surgery and then radiation
« Reply #1 on: October 07, 2018, 12:57:51 pm »
Hi Joan, not sure if you are still on here, but that is my story too. Had surgery 16 months ago and now the tumor is almost back to original size. Having stereotactic surgery in a week for 5 sessions.
5/2/17 @ Vanderbilt Translab approach with Drs. Haynes & Chambless
Readmitted on 5/7/17 for CFL, lumbar drain; CFL repair surgery
10/18 5 Radiation treatments for tumor regrowth
3/19 Pain, swelling, facial paralysis
5/19 Facial paralysis, numbness
10/21 Mild facial paralysis still

Patti

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Re: Surgery and then radiation
« Reply #2 on: October 07, 2018, 01:48:47 pm »
yes, i had radiation after surgery.  it came back after 15 years so i had it zapped 3 years ago. there has been no shrinkage but, more importantly, no growth.
4 cm AN removed 12/2000
subsequent brain swelling
removal of part of cerebellum
face, scalp,tongue numbness and partial paralysis
no corneal sensation and no tears-frequent eye issues
cognitive issues
Regrowth (3.1 x ..86 cm) treated by SRS on November 6, 2015

notaclone13

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Re: Surgery and then radiation
« Reply #3 on: October 08, 2018, 10:06:59 am »
Joan, I posted a response on a thread started by Colleen regarding fractionated radiation to control tumor regrowth. I think you will find the information useful and I think it applies to both hers and your situation. Here’s a link to the publication:

https://www.redjournal.org/article/S0360-3016(02)02763-3/fulltext

It sounds like they have had very positive outcomes using this approach at Johns Hopkins, one of the best medical centers in the country.

JLR

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Re: Surgery and then radiation
« Reply #4 on: October 13, 2018, 07:56:19 pm »
Hi all, thanks so much for your responses.  Nov 1 will be2 years post op.  The regrowth has remained stable. Have MRI every 4 months. I do still have facial issues. Eye still dry but can now close easily but I do have synkensis. Had therapy, Accupuncture, more facial excercises etc none have worked. I think it's time that has to heal. My forehead was numb and now I do have feelings there but at surgery site remains numb. Re additional radiation for regrowth my biggest fear is that my facial paralysis would get worse. And any progress would go back to square one!  Any direction about this.  Good luck with your radiation. Please keep me posted. I wish all continued good health. Joan

Sanderson

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Re: Surgery and then radiation
« Reply #5 on: October 14, 2018, 06:42:48 pm »
I have the same concerns. Should I be seeing a neurologist and my neurosurgeon? My eye closes but I can’t blink or smile. Will radiation seal the deal in my ability to improve with my facial paralysis? I feel stuck!

I have asked this question before: Are there recovery stories or just getting used to circumstances?


Sara
Acoustic Schwannoma surgery March 28, 2018
Sutter Medical Center in Sacramento
Deaf in left ear
Facial paralysis on left side
Balance is fine thanks to walking three energetic dogs everyday and yoga twice a week!