In the Spring of this year, 2012, I had my first shocks while walking across a parking lot after watching my granddaughter play basketball. I doubt if I am the only TN sufferer who can name the date and place that the shocks began. Nothing happened again for a few months until my teeth began to hurt.
After making the rounds of dentists, endodontist and sinus specialist, and after a little internet searching, I admitted to myself that my diagnosis was Trigeminal Neuralgia. More internet research and I found the neurosurgeon who would, I hope, become my savior. He was wonderful and caring. He started me on Tegretol, which I could not tolerate, then Neurontin, which eased the ice pick pains in my teeth and prevented the shocks. I was fortunate that I never had the terrible pain that takes others to an Emergency Room but I was scared of the shocks returning. During my last attack, I told my husband that I could not live with that pain.
Fast forward to the beginning of December. I am back in my neurosurgeon's office, telling him that the 1800 mg/day of Neurontin is keeping the pain at bay, but I have not driven for 6 weeks due to the drug's effect. I am 67 years old and in good health and so I asked for the MVD which he scheduled for this Friday, December 21. If I wait, I may not be as healthy as I am now and perhaps not be eligible for the surgery. This was my choice and I understand it is not for everyone.
Today I had my Pre Admission testing and was both pleased and amazed at the thoroughness of the UPMC protocol. In addition to a complete History and Physical, a meeting with my surgeon, Blood Work, EKG and Chest Xray, I also had my hearing tested. There is also a BSER scheduled for the morning before surgery. This is a Brain Stem Evoked Response Audiometry test. I also met with the anesthesiologist who explained how the anesthesia would be given, what drugs would be used and how many IV lines, including a Central Line I would find when I woke up. I was also given the exercises that I would begin in the Recovery Room. Along with the head moves to be done 10 times each hour, I was also given leg exercises to prevent blood clots. These are also done every hour.
I am already wearing the wrist band for the blood type and screen, for the extremely rare event that I would need blood.
I would be interested in hearing how others were prepared for their surgery.
As soon as I am able after surgery, I will update my experiences. Wish me luck.