Use a local surgeon vs Chiari expert?

June 19, 2001

I also feel compelled to answer this question too. I am facing surgery

shortly and have choosen to use one of the best local neurosurgeons in the

Richmond area. He is the Head of Neurosurgery at one of our best

hospitals here. Though this doctor is not considered a " Chiari " expert, I am

not convinced that is what is needed for the decompression surgery that I

need. He has performed the surgery many times, but does not claim to

concentrate just on Chiari patients. His pratice includes many surgeries

including working on brain tumors, etc... My neurosurgeon explained that

opening up the back of the skull, making more room to relieve pressure,

closing up with a graft (probably from my thigh?) is something he is very

used to doing.

I know many people (from this network) have warned me to go to the " Chiari

Experts " . By the way.... I appreciate all the good advice people have given

from this group....... Anyway, I am sure many people will think I am

" nuts " for not going out of state to a " Chiari Expert " . For me, this

would mean going to land or North Carolina, etc.. At this point, I

am tired of battling with health insurers and risking not having the cost of

the surgery covered, etc.. I am scared about having surgery many miles

away from home with no family or friends close by. So, I have made my

decision and will have to live with the outcome. I am also learning that I

have to place some faith in God that he is directing my path.

I can't tell you how much this group has helped me during a very tough time

-- dealing with a lot of pain, a lot of dead ends, and now finally.... after

learning from all of you guys.....some hope !!

Vida 3mm " Mild " Chiari -- headed for decompression surgery shortly -- waiting

for surgery date

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