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Looking for a Team...

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TrueClarence:
Hi everyone.  I am 42 years old and was just diagnosed with a 2.1 cm AN.  I am still trying to figure out how to navigate this all and was just wondering if there are any renowned facilities that have a "round table" or team approach when deciding which route to take (surgery/radiation).  By looking through the discussion board, I know I have some great choices for either/or but would really like to consult with a team.  I am basically willing to travel anywhere in the U.S. but just need some help deciding what is the best option for me.  Thanks so much!

vanisubodh:
Hi,
 I second this question. I am also in the same situation. I am looking for some great teams for my surgery or radio treatment.
Thanks
Vani

TrueClarence:
Hope you're having some luck with that Vani.  I'm still having a hard time trying to decide which route to go.

Greece Lover:
I'm not an expert, but from talking with people on here over the last five years, it certainly seems that a "roundtable" approach is not common. I think generally people who treat AN tend to specialize in one treatment modality or another, esp. surgery vs. radiation. Another thing that makes it difficult is even on this forum, people often advocate for the treatment they chose. (I'm guilty of that, too!)

One thing I did was gather information from several different sources and then talked it over with my general practice doctor. That was helpful to get medical advice and talk through things from someone not directly involved in providing the AN treatment.

good luck!

bfoley:
I went to the Mayo in Rochester MN (also U of MN hospital).  I used the questions sheet to develop my list of questions.  At Mayo, they treat a large number of new patients per year and since higher volume of ANs treated has been shown to lead to improved outcomes, I selected them for my treatment. They had a team visit which included both radiology and surgery specialists, as I was a candidate for either.  If your AN is a size and location that would allow either approach, YOU need to make the decision on what to do.  Base this on your goals for outcome.  I chose Dr. Michael Link who actually does both radiology and surgery, and I chose radiology. There is no one size fits all and there are pluses and minuses with each approach.  Honestly knowing what the after effects are/can be is what you should look at.  My goal was to stop growth and not have symptoms get worse.  I am SSD (was prior to radiosurgery), tinnitus, and some balance issues.  I still drive, get around fine and have full facial movement. 

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